Lia Block: F1 Academy Driver Returns to Rallying with Hyundai i20 N Rally2

Shanghai, China – Lia Block, the 19-year-old American racer, is shifting her competitive focus back to rallying, confirming her participation in the 2026 American Rally Association (ARA) National Championship. After a two-year exploration of single-seater racing, including a stint in the all-female F1 Academy series with support from the Williams Racing driver academy, Block is eager to return to the discipline where she first made a name for herself.

Block’s decision marks a significant turning point in her burgeoning motorsport career. She will pilot a Hyundai i20 N Rally2 car, a substantial upgrade from the Rally3 car she previously campaigned. The move represents a step up to the RC2 class, a challenge Block readily embraces. “I’m stepping up to the RC2 class in a Hyundai Rally2 car, which is very exciting for me,” Block told DirtFish. “Obviously a substantial step up from the 2023 championship and the Rally3 car, but I believe in myself and my ability to learn new cars and new disciplines very quickly, so I’m just really excited for the road ahead.”

Block’s rally journey began in 2021 with her ARA debut, quickly progressing to a full-time role in 2022. Her breakthrough year came in 2023, when she secured the Open Two-Wheel-Drive championship title at the remarkably young age of 16. This accomplishment established her as a rising star in the American rally scene. The transition to F1 Academy in 2024 and 2025 provided valuable experience in a different racing environment, but Block found herself drawn back to the unique demands and thrills of rally competition.

The decision to return wasn’t taken lightly. Block acknowledged the unpredictable nature of rally racing, a characteristic that both challenges and excites her. “Obviously, as you know, rally is a very unpredictable sport and things can happen two corners from the finish and I learned that already this year!” she said. Despite the inherent risks, Block is confident in her abilities and determined to contend for the ARA championship. “I think I’ve already showed my talent in rally by winning the rear-wheel-drive championship in 2023, but the overall championship is definitely what I’m going for, and of course it’s a big deal.”

Block’s return to rallying is not only a personal milestone but also a boost for the ARA championship. Her participation, alongside co-driver Alex Gelsomino – who previously worked with her father, the late rally legend Ken Block – adds another compelling narrative to the series. The entry of Hyundai into the 2026 ARA season alongside Block further strengthens the competitive landscape, increasing OEM support for rally racing in the United States.

The Hyundai i20 N Rally2 represents a significant technological leap for Block. The car is a sophisticated piece of machinery designed to tackle the diverse and demanding terrain of the ARA championship. Block recognizes the learning curve ahead but is optimistic about her ability to adapt quickly. “It’s a different way of driving: speeds acquire higher, and everything has to be done quicker,” she explained to Road & Track.

Block’s time in F1 Academy, while valuable, ultimately reinforced her passion for rally. She views the experience as a clarifying one, solidifying her commitment to a sport where she has already demonstrated considerable talent. “After F1 Academy, it really made up my mind about what I want to do in the future, and that is rally,” she stated. She anticipates a highly competitive season, acknowledging the strength of rivals like Toyota and Subaru, but remains focused on her own performance and development.

Looking ahead, Block is approaching the 2026 season with a blend of ambition and humility. She understands the challenges that lie ahead but is determined to craft a significant impact on the ARA championship. “I think this year won’t have a lack of competition, and I think that’s going to be the most difficult part. But I really, really do gaze forward to it. It’s about restating myself in the world of rally,” she said. She intends to treat each rally as a learning opportunity, prioritizing enjoyment and continuous improvement. “So I’ll just be taking it as a learning opportunity every time I’m back in the car and having fun because I think that’s the most important thing, and definitely what I’ve missed from rally in the previous years.”

Block’s return to rallying is a compelling story of a young athlete following her passion and embracing a challenging new chapter in her motorsport career. With a competitive spirit, a proven track record, and the backing of Hyundai, Lia Block is poised to make a significant impact on the American rally scene in 2026.