Ken Block: An Inspiration To Motorsport
Motorsport news, January 2023
The motoring world has lost one of its best loved drivers. Ken Block died on 2 January 2023 in a snowmobile accident near his home in Utah. He was 55.
For many people who love cars, Ken Block was the reason they first watched a car being driven sideways on purpose. His rallying, his Gymkhana films and the Hoonigan brand reached far beyond motorsport.
- Ken Block died on 2 January 2023, aged 55
- He started in Rally America in 2005
- He took 16 wins and 28 podiums in Rally America
- He co-founded DC Shoes and the Hoonigan brand
- His Gymkhana films changed how driving was filmed
What is on this page
From rally stages to podiums
Ken Block arrived on the motorsport scene in 2005, when he entered Rally America and showed straight away that he could drive. He raced in the series from 2005 to 2010 and again from 2012 to 2015, and he took 16 wins and 28 podiums along the way.
He had already made a name in business. He co-founded DC Shoes, and later co-founded Hoonigan, which describes itself as a community of people who share a passion for going fast. That community grew around him and his cars.
The Gymkhana films
The Gymkhana series is what most people will remember. In each film Ken Block drove a stunt course with a precision that stretched what anyone thought a car could do, in a different car and a different setting each time, and every film raised the stakes. The series went viral and changed the way driving was filmed.
The films are on the Hoonigan YouTube channel. The Hoonicorn, his four wheel drive 1965 Ford Mustang, and the Ford Fiesta sliding at the water’s edge are two of the moments we come back to.
Ken Block on Top Gear
He also appeared on Top Gear, where his rally and stunt driving reached a whole new audience. Top Gear has published its own tribute, which looks back at his time filming with the show and the influence he had on motorsport.
It is fair to say that anyone who watched Ken Block drive took something from it. His films will be watched for years to come, and he will be missed by millions. From Garreth and everyone at SportSeats4u, our thoughts are with his family and friends. Rest in peace, Ken Block.
When did Ken Block die?
Ken Block died on 2 January 2023, aged 55, in a snowmobile accident in Utah.
What was Ken Block known for?
His rallying, his Gymkhana stunt driving films, and co-founding DC Shoes and Hoonigan.
When did Ken Block start rallying?
He entered Rally America in 2005.
Where can I watch the Gymkhana films?
They are on the Hoonigan YouTube channel.
💬
Rest in peaceKen Block, 1967 to 2023
A driver who changed how the world saw car control.
Need a personal recommendation?
We're here to ensure you pick the right seat.
Contact us today.