Alan Jones, the celebrated Australian driver who claimed the 1980 Formula One world championship, has died at the age of 80. Tributes poured in from across the global motorsport community after the announcement of his death.
His family confirmed that he passed away on 5 November after a short illness. Butler-Davis issued a statement on behalf of the family expressing their deep sorrow.
"We are extremely saddened to announce the passing of our beloved Alan," Butler-Davis said. "He will be dearly missed and fondly remembered by those closest to him, as well as the many fans whose support he was always grateful for."
Born in Melbourne, Jones moved to Europe in 1970 to pursue a career in motor racing. He competed in Formula Three with GRD before making his Formula One debut with Hesketh in 1975. Over a career spanning 10 seasons, he secured 12 grand prix victories before retiring in 1986.
His breakthrough victory came at the 1977 Austrian Grand Prix while driving for the Shadow team. He joined Williams in 1978, a move that cemented his place in racing history.
During his championship-winning season in 1980, Jones triumphed in five races across Argentina, France, Britain, Canada, and the United States. He finished on the podium five additional times to clinch the title with one race remaining in the calendar.
His championship success made him only the second Australian to win the drivers’ title, following Sir Jack Brabham. He is the last Australian driver to be crowned Formula One world champion.
Williams released a statement describing him as instrumental to the team’s early success and an uncompromising competitor. "He set the standard for Williams champions: a fast, uncompromising racer with a challenger mentality who loved motor racing and dedicated his life to it," the team said.
McLaren CEO Zak Brown recalled watching Jones win the 1981 Long Beach Grand Prix, saying the event sparked his own lifelong passion for the sport. Brown currently owns the championship-winning car driven by Jones.
Following his retirement from driving, Jones established a prominent career as a television motorsport commentator, known for his direct analysis. He was a member of the Sport Australia Hall of Fame and was made an MBE.
The Australian Grand Prix pointed to his lasting impact on the sport and local fans. Jones and his father, Stan, are among just three father-son duos to have won the Australian Grand Prix.
Jones is survived by Amanda and six children, namely Christian, Amber, Zara, Jack, Camilla, and Emma.
