Ford Publishes Tribute To Motorsport Legend Ken Block: Video

January 4, 2023 6:34 am

This past Sunday, the world was shocked to learn that race car driver, purveyor of Hoonigan Industries, star of the viral Gymkhana video series, former Ford partner, and all-around car guy Ken Block tragically passed away after a snowmobile accident. Block spent a decade with The Blue Oval before the two parted ways in early 2021 as he sought to expand his empire, after which he sold off a number of his personal vehicles, including a 1986 Ford RS200 Evolution, 2011 Ford Fiesta GYM3 and a classic Ford F-150 dubbed the “Hoonitruck,” though he held onto his beloved and bonkers Ford Mustang called “Hoonicorn.” Ken Block and The Blue Oval enjoyed a deep connection for many years, which is precisely why the automaker has released a tribute video documenting some of those many historic moments.

“With Ken’s passing, we’ve lost a true legend and our dear friend,” the automaker said. “We’re honored to have worked closely with Ken as he entertained the most devout enthusiasts while also inspiring an entirely new generation of automotive fans. Our hearts go out to his family.”

The short clip shows Block piloting all sorts of Ford vehicles over the years, ranging from his rally racers to the models starring in the Gymkhana series to more modern sports cars like the Ford GT and Ford Mustang Mach-E 1400. But above all, it reminds us of just how talented the 55-year-old was, and just how much we automotive enthusiasts are missing now that he’s gone.

With Ken’s passing, we’ve lost a true legend and our dear friend. We’re honored to have worked closely with Ken as he entertained the most devout enthusiasts while also inspiring an entirely new generation of automotive fans. Our hearts go out to his family. pic.twitter.com/EBnmOAblIk

— Ford Motor Company (@Ford) January 3, 2023

“We lost a legend today in Ken Block,” Ford CEO Jim Farley said in a statement. “Ken inspired generations of automotive enthusiasts, and in the process he came to inspire all of us at Ford Motor Company as well.”

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By Brett Foote

Brett's lost track of all the Fords he's owned over the years and how much he's spent modifying them, but his current money pits include an S550 Mustang and 13th gen F-150.