1980 Method 1 World Champion Alan Jones has died after a brief sickness, and simply three days after celebrating his eightieth birthday.
Jones raced in F1 in three totally different spells between 1975 and 1986, having initially competed in a privately-entered Hesketh, and for Graham Hill’s eponymous group.
His transfer to Williams in 1978 propelled him to stardom, taking a maiden victory in Germany a 12 months later.
An extra three victories that season set him up for a title push in 1980, which he completed with 5 wins, ending 13 factors forward of Nelson Piquet.
After quitting F1 on the finish of the next 12 months, he returned for as soon as race with Arrows in 1983, and spent 1985 and ’86 with the Lola Haas backmarkers, earlier than quitting for good.
Jones additionally competed in a single IndyCar race in 1985, and raced it with type, scoring a podium end while deputising for the injured Mario Andretti within the Newman/Haas group at Street America.
Jones’ profile merged into a brand new technology, changing into a longstanding pundit and commentator on Method 1 with Australian tv.
In a press release on X, the official Australian Grand Prix account launched the next assertion:
“Vale Alan Jones.
It’s with nice disappointment that the Australian Grand Prix Company acknowledges the passing of Alan Jones, and we prolong our deepest sympathies to his household, family members and buddies.
As a Method 1® World Champion and considered one of Australia’s biggest racing drivers, Alan holds a particular place within the historical past of our sport. His 1980 World Championship impressed a technology of Australian motorsport followers, whereas his victory on the Australian Grand Prix that very same 12 months stays the final time an Australian driver has received their residence Grand Prix.
He leaves a rare legacy in Australian motorsport and will likely be deeply missed by the motorsport neighborhood world wide.”
Motorsport Week sends its condolences to Alan Jones’ household and buddies presently.