Williams pays tribute to 1980 champion Alan Jones after his death

Williams has paid tribute to Alan Jones, its 1980 world champion, following the news of his death early on Thursday morning. Jones raced for the team from 1978 to 1981, taking 11 wins from 60 starts, including all six of his career pole positions. He became Australia's first Formula 1 world champion and finished third in the standings in both 1979 and 1981.

Jones's title was delivered by the FW07, an iconic white-liveried car designed by Sir Patrick Head that became one of the sport's most copied designs. It is now a permanent fixture at the Williams Heritage museum.

In a statement, Williams said Jones was instrumental in making the team what it is today and described him as a fast, uncompromising racer with a challenger mentality. The team sent its love and thoughts to the Jones family and his friends.