Early Life and Passion for Racing
Ben Collins shares his earliest memories of cars, growing up immersed in a world filled with speed and mechanical passion. From youthful adventures in pedal cars and go-karts to his competitive swimming background during childhood in the US, Collins developed a blend of focus and determination necessary for high-level racing.
He recalls how his father’s love of fast cars and spirited driving trips sparked his own fascination with speed and control. This foundation eventually led him to pursue racing seriously by age 18, when he took his first laps in a single-seater race car at Silverstone — an experience he describes as transformative and life-defining.
Racing Career and Challenges
Collins traces the path from grassroots racing through the ranks, battling the harsh realities of motorsport: the need for sponsorship, the pressure to perform, and the constant struggle to balance risk and reward on track. He discusses the steep learning curve of qualifying laps, racecraft, and developing the mental approach needed to succeed.
He openly admits to early crashes and mistakes born from a dogged determination to win at all costs, illustrating how competition can both fuel success and lead to setbacks. The transition from racing in Europe to opportunities in endurance sports cars and prototype classes highlights the complexity and unpredictability of a racing career.
Behind the Mask: Life as The Stig
Revealing how he became the mysterious racing driver behind the white helmet and suit, Collins recounts the secrecy and discipline required to maintain the Stig persona. He describes his own approach to maintaining anonymity, including never removing the helmet in public and careful efforts to avoid detection even off camera.
The role's demands extended beyond the race track into everyday life, requiring tactical measures to dodge paparazzi and maintain mystique. Collins reflects on the evolution of the character, the challenges of being known yet unknown, and the impact the role had on his life and career.
Insight into Top Gear Production
Ben offers an insider’s view of working with the iconic personalities of Top Gear — Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May — sharing anecdotes about on-set dynamics and the pressures of delivering high-performance driving assignments for a global audience.
He speaks about the balance between professionalism and entertainment, the unique challenges of instructing celebrity guests with varying driving skills, and the unexpected camaraderie behind the cameras. His time on the show marked a defining chapter that blended racing expertise with television fame.
Reflection and Legacy
The conversation closes with Collins reflecting on the legacy of Top Gear, the changes in automotive culture, and his personal journey from racer to television icon. He emphasizes the enduring importance of genuine driving skill, passion for motorsport, and the joy of mastering machinery — values that transcend the spectacle of high-profile media.
Ben Collins’ story illustrates how behind the mask of an enigmatic character lies a deeply committed racing professional whose career offers lessons about resilience, identity, and the intersection of sport and entertainment.
This account sheds light on the man who was “The Stig,” revealing the human side of a legendary figure while celebrating the spirit of racing that continues to inspire automotive enthusiasts worldwide.