Australian F1 world champion Alan Jones dies aged 80

Alan Jones, the 1980 Formula One world champion, has died aged 80.

Jones won 12 F1 grands prix across his career and became just the second Australian, after Sir Jack Brabham, to be crowned world champion when he claimed the title with Williams in 1980.

Jones turned 80 on Monday.

Born in Melbourne, Jones moved to Europe in 1970 to chase his motor racing dream and joined Formula 3 outfit GRD in 1973 before finally breaking through for a F1 debut with Hesketh in 1975.

He claimed his first F1 win in the Austrian GP in 1977 when driving for the Shadow team before he joined Williams in 1978 and found greater success behind the wheel.

Jones won five grands prix in 1980 – in Argentina, France, Britain, Canada and the United States – and finished on the podium five more times to claim the world title with one race remaining.

He retired from racing in 1986 and remains the last Australian to be crowned F1 world champion.

Jones’s wife, Amanda Butler-Davis, released a statement through Motorsport Australia on Thursday.

“We are extremely saddened to announce the passing of our beloved Alan, who passed away on 5 November following a short illness,” 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.

“Alan dedicated his life to motorsport, building a legacy that will live on through the countless people he touched along the way.”

“Through his achievements, passion and unmistakable character, both on and off the track, Alan left an enduring mark on the sport both nationally and across the globe.

“As a family, we would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who was part of Alan’s journey for the many years of friendship, love and support. He was incredibly fortunate to have so many wonderful people around him.”

Jones is survived by his wife, Amanda, and his children, Christian, Amber, Zara, Jack, Camilla and Emma.