It is with deep sadness that the Sport Australia Hall of Fame acknowledges the passing of Alan Jones MBE, one of Australia’s greatest motor racing champions.

Alan made history in 1980 when he became Australia’s second Formula One World Champion, following in the footsteps of Sir Jack Brabham. His remarkable achievement cemented his place among the greats of international motorsport and marked a defining moment for Australian racing.

Born in Victoria, Alan’s passion for motor racing began at an early age, following in the footsteps of his father, Stan, who became the first Australian to win a Grand Prix outside his home country when he claimed the 1954 New Zealand Grand Prix. Alan began his own racing journey in go-karts, winning the Victorian Junior Go-Kart Championship in 1958/59 before setting his sights on Europe in pursuit of a career in motor racing.

After making his Formula One debut in 1975, Alan joined the Williams team in 1978, where he would go on to achieve some of the greatest successes of his career. In 1979, he won four Grand Prix races before claiming the World Championship in 1980, securing the title with the Saudi-Williams team. That same year, he also won his first Australian Grand Prix.

Following his Formula One career, Alan continued to compete in Australian motorsport, including touring car racing, winning the 1993 James Hardie 12-Hour at Bathurst and the 1995 Winfield Triple Challenge at Eastern Creek. He also became a respected and familiar voice in motorsport broadcasting, continuing his contribution to the sport beyond the racetrack.

Alan was inducted into the Sport Australia Hall of Fame in 1985 as an Athlete Member for his outstanding contribution to motor racing. In 1980, he was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for his services to motor sport.

Alan’s determination, talent and fiercely competitive spirit helped shape Australia’s place in international motorsport. His achievements inspired generations of Australian racing drivers and secured an enduring legacy in the sport.

On behalf of the Sport Australia Hall of Fame Members, Legends, Scholarship Holders, Board and staff, we extend our deepest condolences to Alan’s family, friends and the wider motorsport community.

Alan Jones MBE will be remembered as a champion who carried Australian motorsport onto the world stage. Rest in peace, Alan.