Romanian JWRC Champion Channels Ken Block in Gymkhana-Style Ford Video
Ford’s Craiova plant marked its 40th anniversary and Romania’s National Day with a Gymkhana-inspired stunt video starring rally driver Simone Tempestini.
Ford’s Craiova plant in Romania marked its fortieth anniversary on 1 December 2016 with a Gymkhana-inspired video that drew international attention. The film, released to coincide with Romania’s National Day, features Simone Tempestini, Romania’s double national rally champion and 2016 JWRC title-holder, taking the wheel in a display reminiscent of Ken Block’s viral stunt driving.
Tempestini pilots a Ford Fiesta rally car through the Craiova factory grounds, executing controlled slides and precision driving around the plant’s production lines and outdoor spaces. The project, produced by Ford Romania, nods directly to Ken Block’s popular Gymkhana series, which has set the benchmark for choreographed car control videos. Block himself is not involved, but the Romanian team’s effort highlights the country’s growing motorsport credentials and Ford’s local presence.
Ford’s Craiova plant and its role in Romania
Ford has operated the Craiova factory since taking over from Automobile Craiova in 2007. The plant has produced the B-Max compact MPV, Transit Connect van and, from 2017, the EcoSport small SUV. It is also a major production site for Ford’s 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine, which has won multiple international awards. The anniversary video was part of a broader celebration recognising both the factory’s history and Ford’s investment in Romanian manufacturing.
A nod to Ken Block’s influence
Ken Block’s Gymkhana videos have inspired a generation of stunt drivers and motorsport fans. The Romanian video echoes that style, with Tempestini’s Fiesta sliding past assembly lines and through tight factory spaces. While the budget and scale differ from Block’s Hollywood-backed productions, the technical skill and choreography on display have drawn praise from enthusiasts and helped raise the profile of Ford’s Romanian operations.
Factory celebrations and wider recognition
The video formed part of a double celebration for Ford Craiova workers, marking both the plant’s anniversary and Romania’s national holiday. For Ford, it was an opportunity to showcase both its manufacturing capabilities and the local motorsport talent represented by Tempestini. The film has since circulated widely among fans of rallying and stunt driving, positioning Romania as a country with both the infrastructure and the drivers to make an impact in the sport.
