Ben Collins aka The Stig, Top Gear’s tame racing driver, has apparently been sacked from the show after he announced the release of his new autobiography. The book is said to be released on September 16.
A replacement then? Well, reports say BBC has already hired a replacement ‘Stig’. The new character was spotted at a recent Nurburgring car event whilst, at the same time, Ben Collins was photographed at his home in western UK. It’s unknown what the Top Gear crew was filming exactly but it certainly puts an end to the Stig’s mystery identity and to Ben Collins’ great job as the world’s most famous test driver.
Ben Collins owns his own autosport company which specialises in all things racing and driving. Collins himself has raced in Formula 3, British Touring cars, the FIA GT Championship and even in our own Bathurst V8 Supercar race teamed with Nathan Pretty in the Kelly/Jack Daniel’s Racing car. He’s also been the test driver for various NASCAR teams and has even tested Formula 1 cars.
Collins’ stint as the Stig started in 2003, giving him a good seven years of solid fun behind the wheel of almost every modern sports and exotic car you care to mention. He might have been sacked, but he’s certainly provided us with a lot of great comparisons and even showcased some funny acting skills.
*Image source: Mirror.co.uk
