Former Formula 1 world champion, Alan Jones, has died at the age of 80 following a short illness.

The Australian won the 1980 title with Williams. He was widely regarded as one of the toughest and most determined drivers of his era.

Jones died on Thursday, November 5, just days after celebrating his 80th birthday on November 2. His death was announced by his wife, Amanda Butler Davis, in a statement released through Motorsport Australia. Tributes have since poured in from across the motorsport world.

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

Born in Melbourne on November 2, 1946, Jones was the son of businessman and racer Stan Jones. He headed to Europe to pursue his racing ambitions and made his Formula 1 debut in a Hesketh at the 1975 Spanish Grand Prix. He worked his way up through the junior categories, often racing with limited funding before earning his big break.

His fortunes changed when he joined Williams in 1978. Driving the ground effect Williams FW07, he won five races in the 1980 season, in Argentina, France, Britain, Canada and the United States, to clinch the drivers title ahead of Brazilian Nelson Piquet. His consistency and aggressive driving style made him a fan favourite throughout that championship run.

Jones became Australia’s second world champion after Sir Jack Brabham, and the first driver to win a title with Williams. He also helped Williams secure its first constructors championship in the same year. The success firmly established Williams as a powerhouse in Formula 1.

Across 10 seasons in Formula 1 between 1975 and 1986, Jones recorded 12 Grand Prix victories and 24 podium finishes in 116 starts. He remains Australia’s last Formula 1 champion and the last local to win the Australian Grand Prix, which he won at Calder Park in 1980. After retirement, he remained a respected voice in the sport as a commentator and mentor to young Australian drivers.