Ben Collins, English race car driver

Ben Collins: A Versatile British Racing Driver and Precision Driving Expert

Born on 13 February 1975 in Bristol, England, Ben Lievesley Collins is an acclaimed British racing driver whose career has spanned over two decades, showcasing exceptional versatility across numerous motorsport disciplines. Since his debut in 1994, Collins has competed at the highest levels in categories ranging from the demanding open-wheel challenges of Formula Three and Indy Lights to the endurance battles of sportscars, the competitive world of GT racing, and the thrilling contact of stock car racing. His adaptability and skill behind the wheel have earned him a reputation as a truly multifaceted driver.

A Distinguished Racing Career: From Formula 3 to FIA GT

Collins's early career quickly demonstrated his potential. In 2000, he achieved a remarkable second-place finish in the prestigious Marlboro Masters Formula 3 championship event, a race often seen as a stepping stone for future Formula 1 stars, held at Circuit Park Zandvoort. The following year, his debut at the iconic Le Mans 24 Hours endurance race was particularly memorable. Driving for the MG Lola EX257 team, Collins set an electrifying pace for approximately four hours during a challenging night rain spell, a truly impressive feat for a rookie in such arduous conditions, highlighting his raw talent and composure under pressure.

His success continued in 2003 when he triumphed in the European Stock Car Championship, competing in ASCAR (Anglo-American Stock Car Racing). This victory led to significant attention, culminating in an offer from PDM Racing to participate in selected rounds of the 2004 Indy Racing League season. Although the car unfortunately never materialized for the races, it underscored the high regard in which his talent was held. In 2005, Collins returned to British circuits, competing in the British GT Championship with a Porsche 996 GT3, where he secured multiple race victories. His strong performances propelled him into the international arena with the FIA GT Series, driving for Ascari, where he continued to demonstrate his speed by leading races and clinching several pole positions against top-tier international competition.

Beyond the Track: Stunt Driving and Automotive Entertainment

Ben Collins's influence extends far beyond traditional competitive racing. Through his company, Collins Autosport Limited, he has become a highly sought-after expert in precision and stunt driving services. This specialist expertise has made him a key figure in both television and film production. For BBC Television, he was a regular contributor to iconic shows such as Top Gear and Top Gear Live, providing expert driving for various segments and demonstrations. His talents have also graced the silver screen, most notably as a stunt driver for the James Bond franchise, where he was behind the wheel of 007's vehicles in critically acclaimed films like Quantum of Solace (2008) and Casino Royale (2006), and even Eve Moneypenny's car in Skyfall (2012). These roles require immense precision, vehicle control, and an understanding of dynamic camera work, skills honed over years of competitive racing.

The Stig Revelation and a New Chapter in Media

In August 2010, Ben Collins became the subject of intense media scrutiny when The Sunday Times alleged he was one of the identities of The Stig, the famously anonymous, helmeted racing driver from the BBC's Top Gear show. This allegation, based on financial filings made by his company, Collins Autosport, sparked a major legal battle. The BBC, keen to preserve The Stig's anonymity, sought a court injunction to prevent Collins from publishing an autobiography that would reveal his identity. However, on 1 September 2010, the court refused the BBC's request, paving the way for Collins to confirm his role. This revelation was a significant moment in television history, ending years of speculation among fans worldwide. Following the public announcement, on 1 October 2010, Collins officially joined another prominent automotive program, Fifth Gear, as a presenter, transitioning from the mysterious Stig to a public face of motoring journalism. His media career further expanded in 2012 when he became a co-presenter for Polish TVN's popular motoring show, Automaniak. In February 2014, Ben Collins was also added to the exclusive 'Drivers Club' of the then newly formed Formula E series, an all-electric open-wheel championship, although he did not compete in the inaugural 2014–15 season, indicating his continued involvement and interest in cutting-edge motorsport developments.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ben Collins

Who is Ben Collins?
Ben Collins is a highly accomplished British racing driver, precision driver, and television presenter, best known for his diverse motorsport career and for being "The Stig" on the BBC's Top Gear.
What is Ben Collins known for in racing?
He is known for his versatility, competing successfully in Formula 3, Le Mans 24 Hours, European Stock Car Championship (ASCAR), British GT, and FIA GT Series. He achieved a second place in the Marlboro Masters F3 and led at Le Mans.
What precision driving work has Ben Collins done?
Through Collins Autosport Limited, he has provided stunt and precision driving for BBC Television shows like Top Gear and for major film productions, notably driving James Bond's cars in Casino Royale and Quantum of Solace, and Eve Moneypenny's car in Skyfall.
When was Ben Collins revealed as The Stig?
Ben Collins was publicly identified as "The Stig" in August 2010 by The Sunday Times, with his identity officially confirmed after a court ruling in September 2010 allowed him to publish his autobiography.
What did Ben Collins do after his identity as The Stig was revealed?
After the revelation, he joined Fifth Gear as a presenter in October 2010, became a co-presenter for Polish TVN's Automaniak in 2012, and was included in the Formula E 'Drivers Club' in 2014.