Experienced racer Lee Holdsworth will become the third driver in as many seasons to campaign the Charlie Schwerkolt Racing Ford in 2015.

Hot on the heels of an Erebus team statement regarding Holdsworth’s exit from the Yatala-based squad, Schwerkolt confirmed the services of the 31-year-old.

In line with replacing incumbent Jack Perkins, Schwerkolt is also moving to a new sponsorship package for 2015.

“Lee has always been seen as one of the top drivers in the V8 Supercars field and his consistency and attitude has always impressed me,” Schwerkolt said.

“Lee is one of those guys that you know, given the right equipment and the right environment, will be at the front of the pack. I’m incredibly excited to have been able to secure his services, and I know that we’ll be able to do great things together.

“When you combine his champion qualities with the fact that he’s a genuinely nice guy, you’ve got a package that’s tough to beat. Being able to bring Lee’s skill to the #18 is brilliant, and I believe it will be a consistent, race-winning combination.”

“I’d also like to take the opportunity to thank Jack Perkins for his professionalism this year, and throughout the transition period as well. He’s a great guy, we’ve enjoyed working with him and hope we can again in the future.

Holdsworth is relishing an opportunity to be part of the satellite operation to the Ford Performance Racing squad.

“Every driver wants to be a part of a factory squad so I’m really excited to join Charlie and FPR next year,” Holdsworth said.

Holdsworth delivered Erebus Motorsport its only V8 Supercars win to date this year at the Winton 400 but has struggled for consistent and competitive pace.

“It’s no secret that it’s been a hard slog over the past couple of years but it didn’t stop me rising to the challenge when I got a sniff at a result. When you’re trying to develop a new package things don’t always go to plan so at times it’s been painful, but you have to stay motivated and get on with the job,” he said.

Holdsworth’s first drive of the #18 Ford will come at next year’s Sydney.com Super Test at Sydney Motorsport Park across the weekend of February 7-8.