Williams pays tribute to Alan Jones after former champion dies aged 80

Williams has paid tribute to Alan Jones after the Australian died aged 80.

Jones won Williams’ first Formula 1 drivers’ title in 1980, the team’s fourth season in the sport. The championship was the first of back-to-back titles for Williams.

Williams credited Jones with helping shape the team and highlighted his close bond with Frank Williams and Patrick Head. In its statement, the team held him up as a benchmark for its champions, praising his speed, uncompromising style, challenger’s mentality and lifelong commitment to motor racing. Williams also called him an Australian icon and a team legend, and said he would be greatly missed.