We are sorry to report rally driver and founder of Hoonigan Ken Block has passed away. He sadly lost his life during a snowmobile accident that occurred Monday. While Block was snowmobiling, he was separated from his group. While descending an extremely steep hill, the snowmobile upended, trapping Block underneath. He was pronounced dead at the scene due to severe injury.
Hoonigan Racing has asked for fans to be respectful of Block’s family as they grieve. Block was more than a racer. An entrepreneur and entertainer, Block founded the DC shoe company in 1994. It’s one of the most recognized skateboard apparel brands in the world.
Block was also well known for the Gymkhana YouTube series. (Not to be confused with the YouTube channel of the same name.) Block amazed and delighted viewers by doing various driving stunts in different locations across the country.
Block started rally racing in 2005, and debuted in the FIA World Rally Championship two years later. A talented driver and go-getter, he started 25 World Rally Championships and from 2006 to 2015, won five X Games Rallycross medals. His fellow racers are saddened and shocked by his passing.
“A passionate racer and real pioneer that inspired so many of us. Rest in peace buddy. All my sympathies are with the family and friends,” Belgian racer Thierry Neuville said. Jenson Button, former F1 driver his shared condolences over social media. “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.”
Our hearts go out to his wife, Lucy, and his three children.
