Growing up in California, Ken was attracted to extreme sports from a young age, and after trying his hand at snowboarding, he went on to co-found successful skateboarding lifestyle brand, DC Shoes.
In 2005, he turned his talents to rallying, winning multiple Rally America events over the following years and making 25 starts at the highest level in the FIA World Rally Championship, while his Gymkhana viral video series turned him into a YouTube sensation, drawing hundreds of millions of views.
His flamboyant, ‘showman’ style – both inside and out of the cockpit – also quickly made him a fans’ favourite in World RX, where he further showcased his versatile skillset.
After ascending the podium on his debut in Hell in 2014 behind the wheel of a Hoonigan Racing Division Ford Fiesta ST – a result that doubled up as a European Championship victory – the American advanced to the final again in his second outing at Lohéac, and reached the rostrum once more at Hockenheim two years later. He placed ninth in the World Championship standings in his final season in 2017.
Ken’s passing leaves a huge hole in our sport, but his legacy as a visionary and inspiration to millions all around the world will live long. Everybody at World RX extends our sincere condolences to his wife Lucy and three children, and share the following tributes..
Andreas Bakkerud:
We were texting a few hours ago. I can’t believe you’re taken from us. It’s unreal! My heart is broken, all my thoughts are with Lucy, the kids and the Hoonigan family...
Petter Solberg:
A top driver, a great friend, a family man and an inspiration to millions all over the world. Today is a very sad day, and all our thoughts are with Ken’s amazing family.
Tue 03 Jan 2023
World RX family pays tribute to Ken Block
The FIA World Rallycross Championship family is saddened to learn of the passing of Ken Block yesterday. Amongst his many achievements, Ken twice finished on the podium in World RX from 2014-16 – including on his debut – and has always remained a friend of the series.
Mattias Ekström:
The world has lost one of its greats. Ken Block’s vision and talent created a whole new motorsports culture, that so many of us admire and enjoy. My thoughts and condolences go out to Ken’s family and friends. Rest in peace, Ken.
Timmy Hansen:
Great racer, kind person, pioneer of our sport and an inspiration to millions of people. You will always be remembered. Legends never die.
Kevin Hansen:
Shocking to hear that Ken has left us... I’ve been lucky enough to race with Ken during two years in RX. He was a true gentleman with a laugh so heartwarming, and a sportsman at its best that we all will miss. Rest in peace buddy.
Klara Andersson:
I woke up to the heartbreaking news of my childhood role model passing away. I watched your videos since I was a little girl dreaming of doing what you do, and met you for the first time in 2016. Rest in peace Ken. You will forever be a legend to the sport. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Anton Marklund:
A legend who will never be forgotten. Rest in peace Ken! My deepest condolences to his family and friends.
Timo Scheider:
No no no…. I can’t believe it, two weeks ago we sat here together and were talking about Lia Block and how talented she is and about all your future plans... and now the world has stopped turning for you!! I’m speechless! My thoughts and prayers are with your family and your loved ones!! RIP my friend.
Reinis Nitišs:
It’s a sad day as I learn about the passing of Ken Block. It was my privilege to race him in World RX and Gymkhana, to share podiums and sometimes just to have a friendly chat. My condolences go out to Ken’s family. Rest in peace, Ken.
Hansen World RX Team:
Our sincere condolences to Ken’s family, friends and Hoonigan team members. Ken Block was a star, a legend and a trailblazer in motorsport. We had the honour to race with him in rallycross and he leaves us with fond memories of his kindness, sportsmanship and passion for speed. Rest in peace.
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