Alan Jones, First Williams F1 Champion, Dies After Short Illness
1980 Formula 1 World Champion Alan Jones has passed away following a brief illness, arriving just three days after he marked his 80th birthday.
Jones competed in F1 across three separate periods between 1975 and 1986, initially driving for a privately entered Hesketh and later for Graham Hill’s eponymous team.
His transfer to Williams in 1978 launched him into prominence, securing a maiden victory in Germany the following year.
Three additional wins that season positioned him for a championship challenge in 1980, which he secured with five victories, finishing 13 points ahead of Nelson Piquet.
After leaving F1 at the end of the subsequent year, he returned for a single race with Arrows in 1983, and spent 1985 and ’86 with the Lola Haas backmarkers before retiring permanently.
Jones also participated in one IndyCar race in 1985, displaying considerable skill by securing a podium finish while substituting for the injured Mario Andretti in the Newman/Haas team at Road America.
Alan Jones claimed the F1 title in 1980, becoming the first driver to achieve this feat for the Williams team.
Jones transitioned into a new generation, establishing himself as a long-standing pundit and commentator on Formula 1 for Australian television.
In a statement on X, the official Australian Grand Prix account released the following message:
“Vale Alan Jones.
It is with great sadness that the Australian Grand Prix Corporation acknowledges the passing of Alan Jones, and we extend our deepest sympathies to his family, loved ones and friends.
As a Formula 1® World Champion and one of Australia’s greatest racing drivers, Alan holds a special place in the history of our sport. His 1980 World Championship inspired a generation of Australian motorsport fans, while his victory at the Australian Grand Prix that same year remains the last time an Australian driver has won their home Grand Prix.
He leaves an extraordinary legacy in Australian motorsport and will be deeply missed by the motorsport community around the world.
Motorsport Week sends its condolences to Alan Jones’ family and friends at this time.
