Perry McCarthy is quite simply unique. He is an ex-Formula One driver, he is a bestselling author and he was the original secret racing driver from BBC Top Gear ‘The Stig’. Perry combines his famous sense of humour and his experiences of rising to the top against the odds to entertain audiences worldwide with hilarious after-dinner speeches or captivating business and motivational addresses.
Most recently Perry is making his motorsport comeback in the ultra exciting TitansRX European Rally Cross Championship, 15 years after hanging up his helmet due to injory. The ex Formula 1 and Le Mans driver regular will join the series from his home event at Lydden Hill, Kent, 27 July, and will compete in every single round for the remainder of the season including Portugal, Austria, Hungary and Germany.
In the world of International Motor Racing, Perry McCarthy is known for his speed and humour. But he is also famous for his determination, opportunism and deal-making abilities. His motto is “Whatever it takes”.
Such was his intent that Perry worked on North Sea Oil Rigs for two years to fund the start of his journey to Grand Prix. Then as his progression upward through the ranks of international motorsport demanded more finance, instead of saying “this is impossible” he relentlessly sought the necessary sponsorship to make his dream of becoming a Grand Prix driver come true. There were many difficult times for Perry and his young family but he would not give up, either on or off the track, always finding a way to make things happen.
His quick wit and ability to deride himself, and others, has entertained spectators, race guests and even rival teams and drivers, in pit lanes, paddocks and bars across the world. With his unique and alluring style, Perry engages audiences with hilarious anecdotes and tales of highs and lows, and his attitude and story have been inspirational. Damon Hill, 1996 F1 World Champion, said of McCarthy “I have constant admiration for how he turns a no hope situation into some sort of triumph”.
Perry is in high demand to give business and motivational speeches. He links his experience and passionate attitude, along with his behind the scenes knowledge of the Formula One world, to provide a highly entertaining and insightful platform tailored to support the client’s key event messages. His speeches are fast paced and include stories about his role as the original Stig, his rise to Formula One, some misadventures at 200 miles per hour and comic sketches on Michael Schumacher, Lewis Hamilton, Kimi Raikkonen, Nigel Mansell, Murray Walker and of course, Jeremy Clarkson.
Perry happily invites audiences to ask him questions about cars, driving, Top Gear and Formula One before signing autographs (if required). You can also ‘Challenge the Stig’ on kart race days and race car simulators.
