Ken Block: Rally Driver and Drift Legend Killed in a Snowmobile Accident

A hero to a generation of 21st century car enthusiasts.

The co-founder of Hoonigan, Ken Block, was killed in a snowmobile accident. The professional rally driver’s passing was confirmed in a statement by the official social media account of Hoonigans.

The statement via an Instagram post read, “It’s with our deepest regrets that we can confirm that Ken Block passed away in a snowmobile accident today. Ken was a visionary, a pioneer, and an icon. And most importantly, a father and husband. He will be incredibly missed. Please respect the family’s privacy at this time while they grieve.”

Ken Block

Soon after the news, tributes poured in for the legend. He had shot to fame in 2005 when he won that year’s Rookie of the Year award in the American Rally Championship. His fame helped reignite enthusiasm for the sport. His ability to push the boundaries saw him finish runner-up three times across his lengthy career.

Block also gained fame in the video game world as he was a playable character in 2009’s Colin McRae: Dirt 2. Then he was also featured in Dirt 3 and 2015’s Need for Speed. Many also appreciated him for his incredible work behind the wheel in motorkhana and his God-given gift for viral marketing. The latter helped him, and his collection of small-body Fords gain superstardom.

In 2010, Block formed the Monster World Rally Team. Recently, he wanted to improve motorsport operations for women. He also advocated youth participation and was in the midst of releasing a video series featuring his 16-year-old daughter Lia. She is an aspiring rally driver who likes tearing down, rebuilding, and driving her ‘85 Audi Ur Quattro.

Block’s last Instagram story showed him arriving at his alpine ranch to some heavy powder. He was clearly excited to get out and hit the snow. His posts also show that he spent Christmas with his family at the ranch, enjoying the heavy snow, snowboarding, and staying cosy around the fire.

One user said about Ken Block, “The man went out doing what he loves, one of his many hobbies. Probably even had a smile on his face.”