Perry McCarthy

Keynote Speaker

Perry McCarthy's Biography

Perry McCarthy is quite simply unique.

He is an ex-Formula One driver, a bestselling author and was the original secret racing driver from BBC’s Top Gear - 'The Stig'.

The means by which a racing driver can reach the pinnacle of Motor Sports is eased considerably if they hail from the “right side of the tracks”. Perry was born in Stepney, East London - a place that has historically produced remarkably few successful racing drivers. Perry’s story is truly one of a kind.

Funding his early career by working on the Oil Rigs of the North Sea, Perry raced in Formula Ford, Formula 3, eventually F3000 and various sports car races in the US before testing for the Footwork Formula One team in 1991. His Formula One break however didn’t come until 1992 when he was signed by the independent Andrea Moda team. Ultimately the team’s efforts descended into something of a farce, yet (along with Perry’s battle to secure his FIA Super Licence in time) make for a tense but hugely entertaining chapter in Perry’s wonderful autobiography, “Flat Out, Flat Broke”.

Further tests for Williams and Benetton precipitated a brief retirement before a return to Sports Car Racing - including 5 appearances at Le Mans between 1996 and 2003.

In 2002 Perry released his autobiography entitled "Flat Out, Flat Broke" which went on to become an international bestseller.
Perry provided commentary on F1 races for the BBC in 2009 and now works as an ambassador and after-dinner speaker for corporations around the world. He 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.

Testimonials

“With Perry you can always guarantee that your guests are going to have a fun time. His ability to grab everyone’s attention and make them laugh has ensured that we book him on a regular basis.”

- David Ingram - Audi PR Manager

“Perry was the ideal choice, his endorsement of the programme generated huge media coverage and interest throughout the country. Working with Perry was an absolute pleasure. He really understood and cared about what the programme aimed to achieve and he employed enthusiasm and professionalism throughout.
An enigmatic character Perry is also a superb speaker and this mixed with likability and his dynamic style, made him the perfect ambassador for our company on this occasion.”

- Maire Campbell, Public Affairs and Communications Manager, Coca Cola

“Just a short note to say thank you for being part of our kick-off last week in Kuala Lumpur and I hope you enjoyed it as much as we did having you there. You and the team really connected which they appreciated immensely as some visitors get put off a little by this kind of attention however I know you’re not that shy! Please keep in touch.”

- Bill Lisle. Chief Executive Officer. AIA Berhad

“Perry’s talks never fail to impress, amuse and delight the audience … is there no end to this man’s library of tales?”

- Graeme Taylor, Marketing Manager, Bang & Olufsen