AtanariaLia Block, a groundbreaking figure in motorsports, has distinguished herself at a young age with remarkable versatility across various racing formats. The daughter of motorsport icon Ken Block, Lia was practically raised on the track, absorbing the world of high-speed racing from an early age. Starting with karting and off-road competitions at just 11, she swiftly developed the skills that would later make her a standout in competitive racing circuits. Her early years included extensive exposure to diverse racing forms, from drifting to rallycross, which laid the groundwork for her unique adaptability and expertise across motorsports.
At age 13, Lia shifted her focus from karting to drag racing and drifting, taking on the formidable 1,400 horsepower “Hoonicorn” Mustang in her drag racing debut. This experience solidified her reputation as a fearless and capable driver, eager to handle vehicles that demand high levels of precision and control. Lia’s competitive edge truly shone in the Lucas Oil Off-Road Racing Series, where she excelled in karting and consistently achieved podium finishes. By 2021, she had transitioned to rallying with the Hoonigan Racing Division, marking her entry into the American Rally Association (ARA) Championship, a crucial step in her racing journey. That year, she competed in the Oregon Trail Rally, setting her sights on the national stage and signaling her arrival as a serious contender.
In 2022, her momentum grew as she entered the ARA Championship full-time, culminating in a stellar performance at the Southern Ohio Forest Rally. She placed 9th overall and 3rd in the O2WD class, a promising result that showcased her potential in rallying. However, it was in 2023 that Lia solidified her legacy by becoming the youngest champion in ARA history, clinching the Open Two-Wheel Drive (O2WD) category title after consistently impressive performances throughout the season
Her ARA win was celebrated not only for her skill but also for her composure, competitiveness, and growing influence as a young woman in a traditionally male-dominated sport.
Expanding her racing repertoire, Lia joined Carl Cox Motorsport in the Extreme E series in 2023, where she partnered with experienced German driver Timo Scheider. This move highlighted her adaptability and willingness to embrace new racing formats, as Extreme E presents unique environmental challenges, including off-road courses across deserts, forests, and arctic landscapes designed to promote sustainable motorsport practices. Lia’s season with Extreme E underscored her status as a versatile, adaptable driver capable of excelling in different racing environments.
In a monumental career step, Williams Racing announced in late 2023 that Lia would join their team for the 2024 F1 Academy season, an all-female single-seater racing series aimed at nurturing young female talent in motorsports. This opportunity with Williams Racing signifies Lia’s entry into Formula racing, where she will represent ART Grand Prix on some of the world’s premier circuits, spanning continents from Asia to North America. This marks her first full season in open-wheel racing, a platform where she is expected to learn, grow, and further hone her racing skills. As part of the Williams Racing Driver Academy, she has access to world-class training and resources, and her inclusion exemplifies Williams’ commitment to advancing female representation in the competitive world of Formula racing
Lia’s career trajectory is a powerful testament to her talent, determination, and adaptability across motorsports disciplines. As she runs 8th in the general rankings with 36 race points scored for the 2024 F1 Academy season, Lia Block’s journey continues to inspire fans and break new ground for young women in motorsports, underscoring the changing landscape of the racing world. Her achievements reflect not only her late father’s legacy but also her own rapidly growing prowess and promise as a future motorsport star.
