The Stig named as Ben Collins

The secret identity of The Stig has finally been revealed as the racing driver and film stuntman Ben Collins. The enigmatic speed ace on Top Gear had been the topic of countless speculation since first appearing on the show 7 years ago. However, now guessing who he is is finally over after the BBC lost a court battle to keep the identity a secret.

Collins appeared in High Court on Wednesday to fight the application from the BBC for an injunction to ban the publication of his autobiography, The Man in the White Suit, which details his time as The Stig on the show. He left the court with his wife before the judgment was made, but HarperCollins, his publisher, said that this is a victory for freedom of speech and a great story to tell.

Collins started performing in The Stig role in 2003. He is known for appearing in the James Bond film Qantum of Solace and National Treasure 2 as a stunt double. He is also a great racing driver. The revealing of his secret life is surprising to his neighbors.

The BBC says that Collins was bound by a confidentiality clause not to tell anyone. In a statement, the network said that they brought the injunction filing because they believe it’s vital to protect The Stig character. However, after losing their court battle, they were handed a £100,000 bill for the 2-day private hearing and The Man in the White Suit is scheduled to be published on September 16.

So now there is question as to who will take over being The Stig. The most popular choice right now is thought to be former British Formula One racing driver Anthony Davidson.