‘A life that should be celebrated’ – Oscar Piastri leads tributes to Alan Jones after F1 champion passes away

Drivers, teams and other members of the Formula 1 community have paid tribute to 1980 World Champion Alan Jones, who passed away at the age of 80 on Thursday.

The Australian racer will forever have a place in the history books as he led the charge in taking Williams to their first drivers’ and constructors’ titles alongside team mate Carlos Reutemann, with Jones clinching five Grand Prix victories over a dramatic season.

His collaboration with team boss Sir Frank Williams and technical chief Sir Patrick Head was instrumental in the outfit’s rise to becoming a powerhouse in F1, making a significant impact on both Williams’ and Australia’s place in motorsport.

Speaking ahead of the Sao Paulo Grand Prix, Jones’ compatriot Oscar Piastri said: “I think it’s obviously a very sad day. A life that should be very well celebrated. I think [he was] a guy that obviously had a lot of success on the racetrack and was Australia’s most recent World Champion.

“But I think also the person he was, you know, a very straightforward person, straight to the point. On a personal level as well, he often had nice things to say about me, which was nice.

“I’ve had the honour to drive his World Championship-winning car as well, so [it was] very cool to be able to experience that and connect with him in some kind of way. A sad day, but a day that should celebrate a great life.

“Obviously he was a long, long time before me, and I never had much interaction with Alan. But I think in a lot of ways, he kind of embodied the Australian spirit – very tough, saying it how it is, saying what he thinks, and I think that’s probably the biggest thing.

“Anyone that’s won a World Championship in F1 has clearly achieved it through talent, hard work, all kinds of other things, so I think that probably says enough.”

Current Williams drivers Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon also marked Jones’ achievements as he remains a key part of the team’s legacy.

“Very sad news, given also that Alan was such a strong figure for Williams in our history,” Sainz reflected. “Being our first winner, our first champion, it’s obviously a big loss for the team, as he’s done so much for us. He will be missed. All my best regards to the family and close friends.”

Albon added: “Deeply saddening. Alan was a legend to Williams, and I think he’s brought so much success to the team, and moved the team forwards in many ways. A really sad loss for everyone, but of course especially for us.”

While those on the 2026 grid weren’t around to watch Jones compete in F1, McLaren CEO Zak Brown shared a personal memory of the driver’s prowess and how important he was in encouraging his lasting passion for motorsport.

Another figure who has honoured Jones’ memory was fellow Williams champion Damon Hill, who followed in his footsteps to win the 1996 title, becoming the sixth of seven drivers to taste glory with the British team.

Formula 1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali said: “I am deeply saddened by the passing of Alan Jones, a true great of our sport and an extraordinary racer. Alan was a formidable competitor, a natural leader and an icon who inspired generations of fans, particularly in his beloved Australia.

“His place in Formula 1 history is assured, not least for bringing Williams their first Drivers’ and Constructors’ World Championships in 1980, a defining moment for the team and our sport. But beyond his achievements on track, Alan will be remembered for his character, his passion and the lasting mark he left on Formula 1.

“He will be greatly missed by the entire Formula 1 family. On behalf of Formula 1, I send my heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones. Our thoughts are with them at this very sad time.”