Australian Formula One world champion Alan Jones has died at the age of 80, three days after his birthday. Jones passed away following a short illness, with reports indicating he had been diagnosed with cancer just weeks prior.
Born on November 2, 1946, Jones grew up in a racing family; his father, Stan Jones, won the 1959 Australian Grand Prix. Alan began his motorsport career in Minis and Coopers before pursuing opportunities in Europe.
His path to Formula One was challenging. An initial European trip in 1967 ended without securing a drive, and upon returning to Britain in 1970, he financed his ambitions by buying and selling used cars. A significant setback came with a testing crash at Brands Hatch that resulted in a broken leg.
Jones achieved success in Formula Three, finishing as runner-up in the 1973 British championship. He went on to win 12 Formula One races during his career. In 1980, he drove for Williams, securing the team's first drivers' world championship. He remains one of only two Australians to have claimed the Formula One drivers' world title, alongside Sir Jack Brabham.
Beyond his racing achievements, Jones became a recognizable figure on Australian television, co-hosting sports coverage and known for his candid commentary.