![Solberg-tribute-livery-Ken-Block-2](https://speedcafe.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Solberg-tribute-livery-Ken-Block-2.jpg)
Oliver Solberg will run a tribute to Ken Block at the 2023 FIA World Rally Championship season-opener.
Solberg is running a Block-themed livery on his Skoda Fabia RS Rally2 at Rallye Monte-Carlo this week, following the rally driver's death in a snowmobile crash on January 2.
Block's passing resulted in tributes flowing in from the motorsport community, friends and family.
The WRC also paid its respects to Block, by retiring #43 from use in competition this year.
Solberg, who is sponsored by former Block backer Monster Energy, is running a livery that incorporates the trademark black and green design that featured on Block's rally cars with the addition of #43 forever featured on the rear-door panel.
On the rear bumper of the Skoda is a quote said by Block, when asked what his legacy would be.
“Be creative, live a fun life and don't be an asshole,” Block replied.
![Solberg-tribute-livery-Ken-Block-1](https://speedcafe.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Solberg-tribute-livery-Ken-Block-1.jpg)
Through the sponsorship arrangement, Solberg had many encounters with Block and paid tribute to him following his passing.
“My hero, my friend, you were a true inspiration and I will be forever grateful for the opportunities and help you gave me,” he posted to social media.
The son of 2003 WRC title winner Petter Solberg, the 21-year-old is competing in WRC2 this year with Toksport, following the non-renewal of his contract with Hyundai Motorsport last year.
It was announced in 2021, that the Swedish-Norwegian rally driver would be promoted to the top-flight of WRC for a part-time campaign in 2022.
His campaign was highlighted by a fourth-place finish at the Ypres Rally, as well as a fifth-place result at his final event – Rally New Zealand.
While he recorded several top-10 results, his 2022 season was hampered by retirements at Rallye Monte-Carlo, Rally Sweden and Croatia Rally respectively.
Solberg was dropped from his seat in the lead-up to Catalunya Rally de Espana, with Hyundai Motorsport President Sean Kim citing a desire to have an experienced driver line-up in 2023.
Rallye Monte Carlo will take place on January 19-22.