Extreme E mourns loss of motorsport legend Ken Block

A renowned pioneer and innovator across many sports, Ken was a legendary racing driver and YouTube star whose iconic Gymkhana video series revolutionised motorsports filmmaking, with his Hoonigan YouTube channel becoming one the most popular in motorsports history.

Previously, Ken co-founded the skateboard brand DC Shoes in 1984 and, after selling the company in 2004, became one of the most recognisable names across motorsport.

Having started his rallying career in 2005, Block was named Rookie of the Year in the Rally America Championship. He then competed in the FIA World Rally Championship and FIA World Rallycross Championship, and won several rallycross medals at the X Games.

Ken also had a unique affinity with Extreme E, having been involved in the early developments of the series and was the first driver to race the ODYSSEY 21 in competitive motorsports, at the Dakar Rally in January 2020. In a guest appearance, and driving an electric SUV for the first time, he put in a terrific performance to finish third out on course in typical ‘Ken Block’ style.

James Taylor, Chief Championship Officer at Extreme E, said:
“It is incredibly sad news. Ken was a racing legend and a visionary in terms of his unique approach to motorsports and sports marketing. He achieved so much in and out of a racing car.”

"Ken was the first person to race our Extreme E ODYSSEY 21 in competitive motorsport, in the last stage of the 2020 Dakar Rally. After only a few hours of testing, he recorded the third fastest time and created some iconic footage. An experience that many of us will never forget!

Ken is survived by his wife Lucy and three children. The Extreme E team extend their support and condolences to the Block family during this difficult time. Ken’s death leaves a huge hole in our sport and he will be sorely missed by Extreme E community.