FIA announced today that the number #43 will be withdrawn from this year's World Rally Championship as a mark of respect to Ken Block.
The death of the American driver in a snowmobile accident shocked the motorsport world as he lost his life at the age of 55 years old. So far, it is known that he was alone during his accident on Monday 2 January, as he did snowmobile with his friends in that day, and the police authorities of Utah are still investigating the causes of his accident.
Ken Block did his debut in World Rally Championship back in 2007 when he drove a Subaru Impreza STi N12 in Mexico and New Zealand and secured a seven-event programme with M-Sport Ford in 2010. From 2011 to 2014, he got behind the wheel of a Ford Fiesta RS WRC while his last appearance at the top level was at Rally Spain in 2018. During his motorsport career, he was very loyal to Ford as he mainly drove cars from this American car brand. Furthermore, he founded Hoonigan and had the sponsorship of Monster Energy. Apart from his WRC participations, he competed in Rallycross at European, American and World level and in Gymkhana series where he got popular by his drifting and handling skills.
"Given the enormous contribution our great friend Ken Block made to motor sport and the fact that he was held in such high regard by people the world over, it is entirely appropriate that his #43 will be withdrawn from use during the 2023 WRC season", the FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem said.
"While it’s a small gesture, we hope that it is one that will bring some comfort to his family and friends at this time.
"Ken was a true legend and the memory of this true legend will live with us forever".
Finally, WRC Promoter managing director Jona Siebel said: "The impact that Ken had on rallying in taking our sport to an all-new audience cannot be underestimated.
"For Ken, fan engagement was paramount, making him a beloved figure of the WRC.
"As a sport, withdrawing the number 43 – a number synonymous with Ken –is our small mark of respect for Ken’s family, friends and fans".
Photo Credits: M-Sport
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