It's end of the road for Ken Block and Ford. It looks like the divorce meant Block had lost the Hoonicorn v2. The long time partners have called it quits, and the Subaru WRX STI becoming the newest Gymkhana drive should've been a big clue. It wasn't a bitter ending though, as Block gave a thorough farewell to Ford and had his last ride in the 1,400-hp AWD Mustang Hoonicorn v2.
Final Drive With The Hoonicorn V2
The relation between Block and Ford started in 2010, when Ken entered the World Rally Championship behind the wheel of a Ford Focus RS WRC, becoming first American driver to campaign in the WRC. Since then, the partners were having a great relationship, giving birth to a fleet of bonker Fords including the AWD Mustang Hoonicorn and F-150 Hoonitruck.
The "Hoonicorn Vs World" YouTube series by Hoonigan may have been another indicator of the divorce between Block and Ford. The series started in mid-November with the Hoonicorn going up against a McLaren Senna Merlin. The last episode was uploaded at the end of the year, and it featured the Hoonicorn racing against Hoonigan's beloved Merch Truck.
Giving Each Other Thanks
There was no indication that the "Hoonicorn Vs World" series was the last project between Block and the 1965 monstrous Mustang modificata. But it was a fitting farewell between the duo. As for the 10-year partnership between Block and Ford, Ken called it "awesome." He thanked Ford for the support the carmaker had given him in the past decade.
In another YouTube video, no other than Ford CEO Jim Farley gave the farewell message to Block, thanking him for bringing the thrill of Ford Performance vehicles to a new generation of vehicle buyers. He also thanks Block for his performances, rally wins and rallycross around the world. Farley ended his message, "Ken, thanks for 10 great years of Hooning."
What's Next For Block?
With the end of the partnership, Block is practically a free agent. This means, he could now sign up with other carmakers. Which carmaker might that be? Gymkhana 11 and the car behind Ken in his Facebook video -- when he said "we'll be announcing [our plans] soon!" -- are some clues.
Source: Ken Block