Drivers across the world of motorsport shared their shock at the sudden death of fan star Ken Block yesterday.
Block’s creativity and expertly crafted precision, high-speed drifting and outrageous scenes have earned him a huge following. He translated his skills into motor racing, competing in the World Rally Championship and the World Rallycross Championship.
Yesterday, he died in a snowmobile accident, which gave a surprising response to the contestants.
Formula 1 world champion Jenson Button said on social media: “Shocked when Ken Block passed.” “Such talent has contributed a lot to our sport. He was a true visionary with his own unique style and contagious smile.
“Our sport has lost one of its greatest today, but above all, a great man. Sending love and hugs to the Block family.
Button’s fellow world champion Fernando Alonso called Blok “a legend of our sport”.
The death of the 55-year-old man was confirmed by his company Hoonigan Industries. “It is with the deepest regrets that we can confirm that Ken Block has died in a snowmobile accident,” he said in a statement.
“Ken was a visionary, a pioneer and an icon. And above all, father and husband. He will be missed incredibly. Please respect the family’s privacy at this time.”
IndyCar driver Connor Daly says Block is “my hero” and “the reason Subaru was my first car.”
“I’ve waited in line several times just to get a chance to meet him and get a photo,” Daley said. “One of the coolest dudes ever. Very sad RIP.”
“Ken has shown us that when you do it your way, amazing things can happen,” said fellow IndyCar driver JR Hildebrand of Delhi.
“To me, this generation’s most inspiring thinker and doer in automotive, motorsport and media. Iconoclastic, in every sense. Today we lost a legend. Rest in peace, KB43.
Two of F1’s newest drivers, Oscar Piastiri and Logan Sarajt, were inspired by Block’s celebrated Gymkhana videos growing up.
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