In Case You Are Hiding Underneath A Rock

Can you imagine the unveiling of the true identity of a TV character being covered by major newswires, rival news channels and the such?

Such is the mystique surrounding the Stig. Some say he once punched a horse and that he is illegal across 17 American states...

LONDON (AFP) — Formula One legend Michael Schumacher has been unveiled as "the Stig" -- the mystery man who test drives cars on cult motoring show "Top Gear."

The identity of the white-clad driver is kept a closely guarded secret, but Schumacher, who was Formula One world drivers' champion seven times, finally revealed himself in the first of a new series of the show on Sunday night.

Presenter Jeremy Clarkson pretended not to recognise him at first, asking him what he used to do before he became famous as the Stig, but then excitedly shouted to the studio audience: "It's Michael Schumacher!"

Former Formula One driver Perry McCarthy was Top Gear's original Stig, who dressed all in black during the first two series.

The show is shown in more than 100 countries worldwide.

Copyright © 2009 AFP. All rights reserved.