Racer X

Undeniably, Racer X is the least understood driver on the Formula 1 racing circuit.  Both feared and revered, he inspires rumors that whenever he competes, crashes are sure to occur.  A facemask used to conceal his true identity further shrouds him in mystery, only adding to his reputation as a jinx.

Unbeknownst to Speed (and his family), Racer X is really his older brother, Rex Racer, a fact we are frequently reminded of throughout the long series.  Long ago, while competing in a race, Rex crashed a car Pops built.  Subsequently he ran away from home when Pops told him he lacked the necessary experience to race professionally.  Aided by his mentor, Kabala, Racer X hones his driving skills, learning how to drive on “tortured roads and broken trails.”  After this internship, he becomes a professional driver.

Along the way, he adds “secret agent” to his resume. He uses his experience as a racecar driver as cover for his primary occupation at the Paris-based International Police.