1980 Formula 1 world champion Alan Jones died at the age of 80.
Jones won 12 Formula One grands prix in his career and became only the second Australian to win the world championship after Sir Jack Brabham in 1980 when he won the title with Williams.
Jones turned 80 on Monday.
Born in Melbourne, Jones moved to Europe in 1970 to pursue his motor racing dream and joined Formula 3 GRD in 1973 before making his Formula 3 debut with Hesketh in 1975.
He claimed his first F1 victory at the Austrian GP in 1977 driving the Shadow team before joining Williams in 1978, and went on to greater success behind the wheel.
Jones won five grands prix in Argentina, France, England, Canada and the United States in 1980 and was on the podium five more times to become world champion with one race to spare.
He retired in 1986 and remains the last Australian to win the F1 world title.
Jones’ wife, Amanda Butler-Davis, released a statement via Motorsport Australia on Thursday.
Butler-Davies said: “We are very saddened by the passing of our beloved Alan, who passed away on November 5 after a short illness. “He will be greatly missed and fondly remembered by those closest to him, as well as by his many fans, for whose support he was forever grateful.
“Dedicating his life to motorsports, Alan built a legacy that will live on through the countless people he touched along the way. Through his accomplishments, passion and impeccable character both on and off the track, Alan left a lasting mark on the sport both nationally and around the world.
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“As a family, we would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has been a part of Alan’s journey for their friendship, love and support over the years. He was incredibly lucky to have so many wonderful people around him.”
Jones built a successful television career as a motorsport commentator and was known for his straight-talking analysis.
He is a member of the Sports Australia Hall of Fame and has been made an MBE. Jones and his father Stan are among only three father-sons to win the Australian Grand Prix.
Jones was previously married to Beverly. He is survived by Amanda and their six children – Christian, Amber, Zara, Jack, Camilla and Emma.