Formula One practice sessions for the 2026 Sao Paulo Grand Prix at Interlagos get underway under a heavy cloud of mourning following the death of Alan Jones, at the age of 80.
Tributes Lead the Sao Paulo Paddock
Formula 1 personnel arrived at Autódromo José Carlos Pace on November 6, 2026, facing the loss of a defining figure from the sport’s fierce 1980s era. Speaking ahead of the Sao Paulo Grand Prix, McLaren driver Oscar Piastri remembered Alan Jones. Jones passed away on November 5 following a short illness, surrounded by his wife Amanda and his six children. Amanda stated: We are extremely saddened to announce the passing of our beloved Alan, who passed away on 5 November following a short illness,
and added: As a family, we would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who was part of Alan’s journey for the many years of friendship, love and support.
Amanda Butler-Davis also noted that on his 80th birthday on Monday he had his favorite caviar, but stayed off the Grey Goose for once in his life, as shared by Australian TV presenter Eddie McGuire. Drivers, teams and other members of the Formula 1 community paid tribute to the 1980 World Champion following his passing on Thursday. Oscar Piastri remarked that it is a very sad day, celebrating a life of a driver who achieved a lot of success on the racetrack and stands as Australia’s most recent World Champion. Piastri also noted: 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.
Furthermore, Piastri noted that Jones embodied the Australian spirit by being tough, straightforward, and saying it how it is. Domenicali stated: 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.
Williams released an official team statement highlighting that Jones formed an extraordinary bond with founders Frank Williams and Patrick Head to capture that crown in just the team’s fourth season.
It is with great sadness that the Automobile Club de l’Ouest has learned of the death of Alan Jones, the Formula 1 World Champion who competed in the 24 Hours of Le Mans on two occasions. Learn more: https://t.co/YmBXdqrqMF
Remembering a Fierce Competitor
Jones first entered Formula 1 at the 1975 Spanish Grand Prix with the Hesketh squad before finding his definitive home alongside Frank Williams. Fellow Williams champion Damon Hill, who claimed the 1996 title, joined current team drivers in reflecting on the fierce competitor who moved the British outfit forward during its formative years, Formula 1 reported.
The son of Stan, a veteran of 97 Formula One Grands Prix who won 12, Jones was captured driving a Lorinser Mercedes 500SEC and remarked, It’ll be somewhere nice to come home to after I’ve done my Nellie Melba…
| Figure | Role / Achievement | Key Milestone |
|---|---|---|
| Alan Jones | 1980 F1 World Champion | First Drivers’ Title for Williams |
| Oscar Piastri | McLaren F1 Driver | Australia’s Successor on the Grid |
| Stefano Domenicali | Formula 1 CEO | Acknowledged Global Legacy |
Interlagos Practice Resumes Amid Mourning
As the 2026 Sao Paulo Grand Prix practice sessions continue at Interlagos, the paddock balances the high-octane demands of modern car setup with collective reflection on a true giant of motorsport. Australian Grand Prix organizers noted that Jones’ 1980 victory at his home event remains the last time an Australian driver won their home Grand Prix, cementing a statistical drought that lasted decades.
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Remembering the great Alan Jones 🤍 Australia’s second F1 World Champion and the man who brought Williams their first-ever World Championship 🏆#F1 pic.twitter.com/bDwTDkTzCA
Earlier coverage: Alan Jones, 1980 Formula One World Champion, Dies Aged 80
More on Sao Paulo Grand Prix
Our President and CEO, Stefano Domenicali, pays tribute to former World Champion Alan Jones#F1 pic.twitter.com/cEPYINYRlC
The FIA extends its deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Alan Jones. A Formula 1 World Champion and true motor sport legend, his legacy and contribution to our sport will never be forgotten. Our thoughts are with his family and friends. pic.twitter.com/kfDA1ZMeZQ
