Ken Block's Monster World Rally Team is go!

American rally star Ken Block will compete in the World Rally Championship in 2010 and 2011 as part of the newly formed 'Monster World Rally Team', backed by the American energy drink company and Ford.

Block is a seasoned competitor in the Rally America national series, and has tackled a handful of WRC rallies in the Group N class, however he is best known around the globe for his wildly successful viral internet videos featuring his stunt driving expertise in a rally car.

A statement from the Monster World Rally Team confirmed Block, 42, will compete in 'selected rounds' of this year's championship with an emphasis on 'developing his ability for a successful future in the WRC'. His move to the WRC is a historic one - and makes him the first American to enter the WRC as part of a multi-year programme.

“Racing in the World Rally Championship has always been a dream of mine but I’d still be dreaming if I promised podiums in the near future,” said Block. “I will be going head-to head with the greatest drivers on the planet. And sure, I will be giving it my all but my main objective for 2010 is to develop into a competitive driver for 2011 and beyond.”

In the WRC, Block will be driving a Focus RS WRC prepared by M-Sport, the company responsible for handling Ford’s World Rally programme. M-Sport’s Managing Director, Malcolm Wilson said: “It is great news that Ken will be joining the WRC and even better that it will be with Ford! Ken has been instrumental in elevating the public awareness of rallying throughout the world with his multimedia exploits, particularly in the U.S. which is a key global market and an area where WRC has yet to reach its full potential."

"Ken’s appearance in the WRC and his desire to compete toe-to-toe at the highest level is indicative of the determination and drive that he has exhibited in all areas of his life to date - be it in business or personal targets. Ken is a colourful character with a huge international fan base and his decision to appear in the WRC is warmly welcomed," he added.

In addition to his WRC programme, Block will continue to compete in the Rally America series, as well as in X-Games XVI, in another Ford - a Fiesta prepared by Olsbergs MSE. “I am stoked to be rallying in a Ford,” said Block. “They are an impressive force in the sport. From the days of the 1970s Escorts to the Group B RS200, to the modern-day Focus and now the Fiesta, Ford has an excellent history within rally. I couldn’t be happier to be part of this amazing heritage. Not to mention my dad would be proud. He was a true Ford guy.”

The Monster World Rally Team developed as a result of Ken Block’s existing relationship with the energy drink company. “A radically extreme form of motorsport with supremely talented drivers who compete on gravel, asphalt, snow and ice really mirrors everything we are about,” explained Monster Energy President Mark Hall.

“For that reason Monster Energy is pleased to join Ken Block in the formation of the Monster Energy World Rally Team. Not only is Ken a cult hero to our consumers through his gymkhana videos and other stunts, the fact that he will be the first American racer to compete in the 38-year history of the World Rally Championship is truly impressive. Factoring in that Ken will be chasing the 2010 Rally America Championship Series, a Gold Medal at X Games XVI while continuing to scheme-up new videos and mind-altering stunts, Monster couldn't have a finer ambassador in our new venture into rally.”

The skateboard footwear company Block co-founded, DC Shoes, will also support the team, along with the video game title, Dirt2, in which Block had a starring role.

There is no word yet about a possible partner for Block at the team, although his friend, former Subaru driver Chris Atkinson was linked to the team last year.

Further details about this, and the number of rallies Ken and the team will tackle in 2011, are expected shortly.