Ken Block, a rally icon and all-round entertainer has died aged 55 following a snowmobile accident.
Hoonigan Racing Division, which Block founded, shared a statement online; “It’s with our deepest regrets that we can confirm that Ken Block passed away in a snowmobile accident today.”
It went on to say; “Ken was a visionary, a pioneer and an icon. And more importantly, a father and a husband. He will be incredibly missed.”
The Utah Sheriff Office also released a statement confirming Block’s passing, with further details of the accident.
“On January 2, 2023 at approximately 2:00 p.m., the Wasatch County 911 Center received a call reporting a snowmobile accident in the Mill Hollow area.
“Search and Rescue, along with law enforcement from Wasatch County Sheriff’s Office, Utah State Parks and the U.S. Forest Service responded.
“The driver, Kenneth Block, 55-year-old male out of Park City, Utah, was riding a snowmobile on a steep slope when the snowmobile upended, landing on top of him. He was pronounced deceased at the scene from injuries sustained in the accident.
“Mr. Block was riding with a group but was alone when the accident occurred.
Block began competitive rally driving in 2005 and was Rally America’s Rookie of the Year in his first season.
He also went on to win rallycross medals at the X Games and secure podium finishes in the World Rallycross Championship.
Later in his career, he gained newfound fame on YouTube with his series navigating dangerous tracks and various obstacle courses in multiple different vehicles.
The motorsport world has also been paying tribute to Block.
2009 F1 World Champion Jenson Button shared on Twitter that he was in “shock” following Block’s passing.
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 Circuit de Barcelona-Cataluyna simply said, “Thank you for the show.”
Thank you for the show, Ken Block.
We will miss you 🕊 pic.twitter.com/FnVWnRKvAj
— Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya (@Circuitcat_eng) January 3, 2023