Photo of Ken Block’s snow wheel crash became widely spread on the web.
Veteran rally driver Ken Block, who later gained online fame for his daring on-track stunts, died at 55 as a result of a snowmobile crash, as confirmed by his Hoonigan Racing team.
Hoonigan published a statement on Instagram on Monday announcing, “It is with our deepest sorrow that we announce the passing of Ken Block in a snowmobile accident today. Ken was a trailblazer, an icon, and a visionary. And most importantly, a husband and father. His absence will be deeply felt.”
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The incident occurred in Wasatch County in Utah. According to the local sheriff’s office, Block was traversing a steep slope when the snowmobile flipped over and landed on him.
It was reported that he was riding alone within a group at the time of the accident. He was declared dead at the scene due to injuries sustained in the crash.
Meanwhile, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, the president of the Federation Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), expressed his sorrow over the passing of Ken Block. “A remarkable gentleman in our sport and a source of inspiration for all of us.”
LeBlanc shared a picture of the two together with the caption, “I am devastated by the loss of Ken Block. A friend and a truly talented individual who left us too soon. You will be missed by everyone who had the honor of knowing you. My condolences to your family.”
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Along with the official Top Gear Twitter page, which referred to Block as an all-around hero, former Top Gear presenter James May also paid his respects. May tweeted, “RIP Ken Block, with gratitude for some unforgettable outings.”
RIP Ken Block, with thanks for some hilarious days out. Here’s the airfield drifting piece from years back.https://t.co/4BVhlkxVrr
— James May (@MrJamesMay) January 3, 2023
Ken Block has died in a snowmobile accident. The professional rally driver, Gymkhana star and all-round hero has passed away https://t.co/v7gZUFC9MQ
— Top Gear (@BBC_TopGear) January 3, 2023
In the meantime, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, president of the Federation Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), expressed his sadness at Ken Block’s passing. “An exemplary figure in our sport and a source of inspiration for all of us.”
Block embarked on his rallying journey in 2005 and was honored with the Rookie of the Year award at the Rally America Championship.
He took part in the World Rally Championship and achieved numerous accolades for rallycross at the X Games.
The American created the Gymkhana film series, where he maneuvered through challenging routes, obstacle courses, and the athletic apparel brand DC Shoes. The series garnered millions of views on YouTube.
In 2016, he featured in an episode of the newly relaunched Top Gear on BBC, touring London with host and actor Matt LeBlanc.
Controversy arose when it was reported that Block and LeBlanc had engaged in burnouts, wheelspins, and doughnuts while driving near landmarks like the Cenotaph in Whitehall.
Subsequently, the BBC issued an apology, and the Cenotaph footage was never aired.
