Alan Jones, 1980 Formula One world champion, dies aged 80

Alan Jones, the Australian Formula One world champion who won the 1980 title, died on 5 November, his wife Amanda Butler-Davis said in a statement released through Motorsport Australia.

Jones won 12 F1 grands prix across his career and became the second Australian, after Sir Jack Brabham, to be crowned world champion.

Born in Melbourne, Jones moved to Europe in 1970 to pursue motor racing and joined Formula 3 outfit GRD in 1973 before breaking through to Formula One with Hesketh in 1975.

He claimed his first F1 victory at the 1977 Austrian Grand Prix driving for Shadow, joined Williams in 1978 and won five grands prix in 1980 — Argentina, France, Britain, Canada and the United States — while turning 80 on Monday.

Jones finished on the podium five more times in 1980 to secure the world title with one race remaining; he won 12 grands prix across 10 seasons before retiring from racing in 1986 and remains the last Australian to be crowned F1 world champion.

Announcing his death, Butler-Davis said: "We are extremely saddened to announce the passing of our beloved Alan, who passed away on 5 November following a short illness." She added: "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." Butler-Davis also said: "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."

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