1980 Formula 1 World Champion Alan Jones has died after a short illness, and just three days after celebrating his 80th birthday.
Jones raced in F1 in three different spells between 1975 and 1986, having initially competed in a privately-entered Hesketh, and for Graham Hill’s eponymous team.
His move to Williams in 1978 propelled him to stardom, taking a maiden victory in Germany a year later.
A further three victories that season set him up for a title push in 1980, which he accomplished with five wins, finishing 13 points ahead of Nelson Piquet.
After quitting F1 at the end of the following year, he returned for once race with Arrows in 1983, and spent 1985 and ’86 with the Lola Haas backmarkers, before quitting for good.
Jones also competed in one IndyCar race in 1985, and raced it with style, scoring a podium finish whilst deputising for the injured Mario Andretti in the Newman/Haas team at Road America.
Jones’ profile merged into a new generation, becoming a longstanding pundit and commentator on Formula 1 with Australian television.
In a statement on X, the official Australian Grand Prix account released the following statement:
“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.
Discussion about this post