AUSTRALIAN motorsport has lost one of its greatest champions following the passing of 1980 Formula 1 world champion Alan Jones. 

The Melbourne-born racer died on November 5 following a short illness, just three days after celebrating his 80th birthday. 

A larger-than-life character, Mr Jones was as famous for his unmistakable Australian humour, straight-talking nature and fierce determination as he was for his extraordinary achievements behind the wheel. The son of Australian racing great Stan Jones, Alan pursued his father’s passion for motorsport, overcoming financial hardship and countless setbacks to realise his dream of competing at the highest level. 

After making his Formula 1 debut in 1975, Mr Jones secured his maiden Grand Prix victory with Shadow in Austria in 1977, before joining Williams the following year. 

It was with Williams that Mr Jones made history, claiming five victories on his way to the 1980 Formula 1 World Drivers’ Championship – becoming only the second Australian after Sir Jack Brabham to achieve the feat. 

His championship triumph also delivered Williams its first drivers’ title, establishing the foundations of one of Formula 1’s most successful teams.

1980 Formula 1 world champion Alan Jones

Across his career, Mr Jones claimed 12 Grand Prix victories, later returning to Australian touring car racing and becoming a familiar and much-loved voice in motorsport broadcasting. 

Yet beyond the statistics was a man whose passion for racing never diminished and whose uncompromising honesty, quick wit and generous support of fellow Australian drivers earned widespread admiration. 

Former Formula 1 driver Mark Webber remembered Mr Jones as a “warrior”, praising his contribution to Australian motorsport and the encouragement he offered younger competitors. 

In a heartfelt statement, Mr Jones’ wife Amanda Butler-Davis said her husband would be dearly missed by those closest to him and the many fans whose support he treasured.  

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

Mr Jones is survived by Amanda and his six children.