Former WRC driver, gymkhana artist and Hoonigan founder Ken Block was killed in a snowmobile accident on Monday, his team and local authorities confirmed.
"It's with our deepest regrets that we can confirm that Ken Block passed away in a snowmobile accident today," a statement from Hoonigan says.
"Ken was a visionary, a pioneer, and an icon. And most importantly, a father and a husband.
"He will be incredibly missed."
In shock at the passing of Ken Block.
Such a talent that did so much for our sport. He was a true visionary with his own unique style & infectious smile.
Our sport lost one of the best today but more importantly a great man.
Sending love & hugs to the Block family 💙 #ripKen. pic.twitter.com/6HNhfSfc3R
— Jenson Button (@JensonButton) January 3, 2023
The Wasatch County Sheriff's Office in Utah confirmed Block's death in a statement published on Facebook. The 55-year-old driver was running up a steep slope when his snowmobile "upended, landing on top of him," police said.
Block was riding with a group but alone at the time of the incident. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
A massively popular figure in the racing world, Block's main claim to fame was his incredibly successful Gymkhana video series that showcased his daredevil high-speed but surgically precise driving that also redefined filming in the automotive world.
Block, co-founder of DC Shoes, began rallying in the US in 2005, initially in the Rally America series, and then in the WRC on a sporadic basis after contracting with Ford for what was initially known as the Monster World Rally Team.
Block finished second in the Global Rallycross Championship in 2015 before moving to the FIA World Rallycross Championship the following year.
Block and Hoonigan parted ways with Ford at the start of 2021, before they teamed up with Audi to run the German manufacturer's electric-powered S1 concept rally car.
Along with Jenson Button, Lewis Hamilton was among the many motorsport personalities that paid tribute to Block.
"Today I received the news over the loss of a dear friend.” the seven-time World Champion said in a statement on his social media channels.
"I’m devastated to hear of Ken Block’s passing. He was such an amazing person, always lived life to the fullest. I remember our first time working together and how positive he was. So much talent behind the wheel.
"Years ago we had an amazing time heli skiing and snowboarding in Canada. We held so much respect for one another. He will truly be missed and my thoughts and prayers go to his beautiful family. Gone too soon. Rest in peace Ken."
Ken Block is survived by his wife, Lucy, and three children.
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