Reaction to death of Australian F1 world champion Jones

Former Formula 1 world champion Alan Jones has passed away at the age of 80 after a brief illness, according to a statement released by his wife, Amanda Butler-Davis, through Motorsport Australia on X. The couple announced the news on Thursday, November 6, following Jones' death on Wednesday, November 5. "We are extremely saddened to announce the passing of our beloved Alan, who passed away on November 5 following a short illness," his wife said.

Jones entered Formula 1 in 1975 and achieved his first win with Shadow at the 1977 Austrian Grand Prix. After joining Williams in 1978, he clinched his maiden victory in the 1977 Austrian Grand Prix and claimed his first world championship title in 1980, becoming the second Australian to achieve this feat. He secured five wins during the 1980 season, finishing ahead of Brazilian driver Nelson Piquet.

In total, Jones recorded 12 Grand Prix victories from 116 race starts between 1975 and 1986. After retiring from racing, he continued competing in touring car and endurance racing, primarily in Australia, until 2002. He later became a well-known figure on Australian television as a motorsport commentator and pundit.