Ken Block memorabilia to go under hammer for motorsport charity
Doesn't include his cars, sadly
Online auction site eBay has announced a sale of Ken Block memorabilia in aid of the Block family’s motorsport charity, 43 Institute.
The sale of 43 items — an homage to Block’s favoured racing number — includes dented wheels from his Hoonicorn Mustang stunt car, the race suit from Block’s 2015 Global RallyCross Championship campaign, and various parts of Block’s vehicles.
One not-so-careful owner
Many of the items on sale were damaged in the making of his famous Gymkhana videos, which saw Block performing stunts in closed locations.
Such items include sequential transmission gears that were broken in Gymkhana Seven and burnt clutch plates from Block’s specially built Hoonicorn Mustang.
Smaller items such as a rare phone case and an official team hat from 2019 are also going under the virtual hammer as part of the sale, which began yesterday (April 3).
The auction also includes art pieces and other collectibles inspired by or made for Block himself before his death last year.
Limited-edition clothing, too
In addition to the items from Block’s personal collection, fans will also be able to purchase limited-edition clothing designed in collaboration with Block House Racing.
“Ken Block was an undeniable inspiration to car lovers and fans everywhere — he united automotive and pop culture in a way that no one else could,” said Chris Prill, global vice-president of eBay Motors.
“We are deeply honoured to partner with the Block family and support Ken’s commitment to the community by connecting our enthusiasts to his legacy through these one-of-one pieces.”
Internet sensation Block died in a snowmobile accident in Utah in January 2023, and the family founded the 43 Institute in his memory using Block’s extensive network to create opportunities for others to compete in motorsport.
More than just a stunt driver
Block was best known for his YouTube videos that included dramatic stunt driving, but he was also among the founders of skate apparel brand DC Shoes and a top-drawer rally driver.
He was runner-up in the 2006, 2008 and 2013 Rally America series, securing 16 wins and 28 podiums in the competition over nine seasons. Block also came second in the 2014 Global RallyCross Championship.
For much of his career, Block was known for his tie-ups with American carmaker Ford, driving numerous hot Focus and Fiesta models, as well as his madcap Hoonigan Mustang, in which he drove Matt LeBlanc around London for an episode of the recently axed BBC car show Top Gear.
Audi tie-up for two electric films
Just before his tragic death as a result of a snowmobile accident in January 2023, Block teamed up with Audi to create two “Electrikhana” videos in high-performance Audi electric vehicles. The first of these was published just a few months before his death, while the second was released posthumously last year, having been filmed in November 2022.
“Ken was passionate about motorsports, action sports, creative arts and giving back to those communities. We founded 43 Institute after his passing to carry on his empowerment of others,” said Ken’s wife, Lucy Block, who is also a professional rally driver and Block House Racing principal.
“Opening our archives for the first time with eBay Motors and sharing a piece of his career with fans is the perfect way to honour his legacy.”
The sale will close on April 13, and Block’s family have confirmed the proceeds of the auction will benefit 43 Institute, helping people get into motorsport regardless of their financial background.
Although the auction is taking place in the US, bidders from across the world will be welcomed, and shipping to the UK is available.
Related articles
- If you found news of the Ken Block memorabilia auction interesting, watch him hoon a one-off Audi prototype
- Watch the 10 best Ken Block gymkhana films
- Fascinated by auctions? Check out Ferrari’s sale of its famous press-car number plates
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