Man of mystery - The Stig

Top Gear test driver The Stig. Photo / Paul Estcourt

The ever-mysterious and ever-talented racing driver is credited as a presenter alongside Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May.

The Stig's primary functions on the Top Gear TV show are to post lap times in various cars around the Top Gear test track in Dunsfold Park, and to train each week's guest in setting a lap time in the Star in a Reasonably-priced Car feature on the show.

In addition, The Stig carries out other driving duties when the need arises. He never says a word and has a notoriously bad temper. Rumours and urban legends abound with what might lie beneath that white suit and helmet.

Some say his skin is the texture of a dolphin's and he has his own satellites. Some say that he's Mac compatible, and that he once punched a horse to the floor. All we know is, he's called The Stig.

The Stig featured in the Top Gear Live New Zealand's 2009 press conference and refused to say a word and ended the media event abruptly by walking off in a huff when asked about the previous black-suited Stig.

Next year's press conference might well be just as interesting.