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Alan Jones Dies Aged 80

His death removes the last Australian Formula 1 world champion who later became a prominent broadcaster.

Overview

  • Jones's family said via Motorsport Australia that he passed away on 5 November after a short illness.
  • Australian media reported that he had been diagnosed with cancer only weeks before his death, a detail described as reported rather than officially confirmed.
  • Jones won the 1980 Formula 1 drivers' title for Williams, recording 12 Grand Prix victories across roughly 116 starts and becoming only the second Australian world champion after Sir Jack Brabham.
  • After retiring from driving he built a long public career as a straight‑talking TV commentator and motorsport adviser, and leading bodies including the Australian Grand Prix Corporation and Williams issued public tributes.
  • He is survived by his wife Amanda Butler‑Davis and his children, and his honours include an MBE and induction into the Sport Australia Hall of Fame with a bronze bust at Albert Park recognising his place in Australian motorsport.