Supercars community pays tribute to 'legend' Block

Tributes have flowed from the Supercars community to Ken Block following the sudden passing of the rally legend.

Block passed away, aged 55, following a snowmobile accident in Utah. He is survived by his wife and three children.

The popular rally driver's passing was confirmed by his rally team, the Hoonigan Racing Division, on Tuesday (AEDT).

"It's with our deepest regrets that we can confirm that Ken Block passed away in a snowmobile accident today," read a statement posted to social media.

"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."

Block co-founded of DC Shoes, and began rallying in 2005.

He made cameos in the World Rally Championship, and famously produced a series of gymkhana videos.

Block was also a noted fan of Supercars racing, and performed at the 2013 Adelaide 500.

In 2011, Block joined then Ford Performance Racing drivers Will Davison and Mark Winterbottom in a ride-swap at Calder Park.

That day, Block — who was in Australia during his Gymkhana World Tour — sampled an FPR Falcon Supercar.

Davison and Winterbottom also drove Block’s Gymkhana Three Ford Fiesta with the rally ace by their side.

Block —aboard his Fiesta — then drifted behind Davison’s Supercar around Calder Park.

Supercars drivers and teams have since taken to social media to share their condolences for the rally legend.

Block chases Davison at Calder in 2011

"A true icon, an incredibly talented driver, a showman and visionary who did so much for the sport," Davison wrote.

"I had the privilege to spend a lot of time with Ken some years back. We switched cars on quite a few occasions and it was a memory I’ll never forget.

"But what stood out most was what a kind, gentle guy he was. A real family man who was down to earth and just a generally wonderful bloke.

"I can’t believe this news, I am thinking of all his family, friends and team. RIP mate."

In a team post, Tickford wrote: "We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Ken Block.

"A peerless ambassador for motorsport and friend of fellow racers the world over. Epic driver, ultimate car guy, true legend.

“We extend our deepest condolences to his friends and family.”

Andre Heimgartner, who also once went for a hot lap with Block, said: "To this day a highlight of my career was meeting Ken and going for a hot lap in his rally car.

Davison rode shotgun with Block in 2011

"For one of the biggest superstars in the world he was super approachable and humble along with his amazing family that was in NZ also.

"Rest in peace mate, your impact on millions of people will be forever lasting. Another gone too soon."

Scott McLaughlin tweeted: "So sad. Watched all his videos. RIP Ken."

“I remember watching this video as a kid,” Broc Feeney wrote about Block’s Gymkhana Five through San Francisco.

“Then drifting a RC car that looked the same, was pretty cool.

“Did some crazy stuff and raised the bar. RIP @kblock43."

News of Block's passing was also met to an outpouring of grief by the global motorsport community, and motoring as a whole.

"In shock at the passing of Ken Block. Such a talent that did so much for our sport," 2009 Formula 1 champion Jenson Button said.

"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. Sending love & hugs to the Block family."

'Epic driver, ultimate car guy, true legend'

Stunt driver Matt Mingay wrote: "It’s with a very heart heart that I say ‘Rest In Peace’ Ken Block.

"Absolutely devastating news and our hearts go out to his family and loved ones.

"Ken was a pioneer in our sport and someone I always looked up to."

Motorsport Australia also extended its condolences: "The motorsport world today mourns the passing of American icon Ken Block.

"Famous for his Gymkhana videos, Ken's remarkable skill and ability across a variety of disciplines - including stints in the FIA World Rally Championship and World Rallycross Championship - made him the perfect global ambassador for our sport."

Global Ford boss Jim Farley added: "This is heartbreaking. I was lucky enough to call @kblock43 a friend. He was truly a legend and inspiration to all of us at @Ford."

The 2023 Repco Supercars Championship will commence in Newcastle on March 10-12.

Tickets are on sale on Supercars.com and Ticketek.com.