Three weeks ago Ken Block made his debut at the World Rally Championship in Mexico driving the Monster Energy Ford Focus RS. Block and co-driver Alex Gelsomino proved that they have what it takes to be competitive with several good finishes and fast times – especially under the treacherous wet and muddy conditions.
“We even surprised ourselves, when, after the first few stages, we were not only not dead last, but we were keeping pace with a few veteran WRC drivers, and even ahead of F1 World Champion Kimi Räikkönen,” said Block.
By the end of the first leg, Block had secured a position on the leaderboard for the American flag to fly. Unfortunately on the first stage of Day 2, Block went off course and it put him out of contention. “It was a rookie mistake,” said Block. “We should have noted the change in surface, the section went from a grippy dirt road to very loose gravel and there was just no traction at all, especially for the speed we were trying to carry into the next turn.”
With a heavy time penalty, Block returned for the final day and put on a great performance finishing the eighth fastest on stage 19. They were even the second fastest on stage 21! But, a puncture caused by an unfortunate meeting of rim and rock later on this stage and robbed Block of over a minute.
The next WRC round for Monster World Rally Team will be Rally Turkey, on April 16-18.
To watch the latest video of Block in Mexico, check out this link: