Alan Jones Obituary: Australian Formula One Champion and 1980 World Champion Dies at 80

Australian Formula One legend Alan Jones has died aged 80 following a short illness. The 1980 world champion leaves a lasting legacy with Williams and motorsport worldwide.

Motorsport World Mourns Alan Jones Following His Death at 80

The international motorsport community is mourning the death of Alan Jones, the celebrated Australian racing driver who won the 1980 Formula One World Drivers’ Championship. Jones died on November 5, 2026, aged 80, following a short illness, according to a statement released by his wife, Amanda Butler-Davis, through Motorsport Australia.

Born in Melbourne on November 2, 1946, Alan Stanley Jones grew up with motorsport in his family. His father, Stan Jones, was also a successful racing driver, and his influence helped inspire Alan’s pursuit of a professional racing career. Jones eventually moved to Europe to establish himself in international competition.

Alan Jones’ Journey to Formula One

Jones made his Formula One debut at the 1975 Spanish Grand Prix with the Hesketh team. He secured his first Grand Prix victory in 1977 while driving for Shadow, winning the Austrian Grand Prix. His career reached a defining stage after joining Williams in 1978.

In 1980, Jones won five races and secured the Formula One Drivers’ Championship. He became only the second Australian to win the title, following Sir Jack Brabham, and delivered Williams its first Drivers’ World Championship. Across his Formula One career, Jones recorded 12 Grand Prix victories and became an important figure in the development of the Williams team.

A Lasting Contribution to Australian Motorsport

After leaving Formula One in 1986, Jones continued participating in motorsport and later became a familiar voice as a television commentator. His achievements earned him recognition in Australia and internationally, including membership in the Sport Australia Hall of Fame.

Williams paid tribute to its first world champion, recognizing his contribution to the team’s history and offering condolences to his family and friends. Motorsport Australia also described him as one of the most significant figures in Australian motorsport.

Family Confirms Alan Jones’ Passing

In the statement released through Motorsport Australia, Amanda Butler-Davis expressed the family’s sadness and thanked those who had supported Jones throughout his life and career.

The family confirmed that he is survived by Amanda and six children: Christian, Amber, Zara, Jack, Camilla and Emma.

His death marks the loss of a major figure in Australian sporting history. His championship achievement, 12 Grand Prix victories and contribution to Williams will remain part of Formula One’s history.

Our heartfelt condolences go to his wife, children, extended family, friends, former teammates and admirers around the world. May they find comfort in the memories they shared and in the remarkable sporting legacy he leaves behind.

Rest in peace, Alan Jones.

Disclaimer

The death and age reported in this article are confirmed by a statement issued on behalf of the family through Motorsport Australia and corroborated by major news organizations. The family described his death as following a short illness, but did not disclose a specific medical cause. Claims that Jones had a recent cancer diagnosis have not been established by the family statement or the reliable reports reviewed and are therefore not presented as fact.