Williams pays tribute to its first world champion Alan Jones

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Alan Jones will forever occupy a special place in Williams' history. The Australian, who died on Wednesday aged 80, delivered the team's first Formula 1 world championship and helped shape the Grove outfit's identity.

Jones passed away after a short illness, three days after his 80th birthday. His 1980 title came in only Williams' fourth season in Formula 1, a breakthrough for the young team.

In its tribute, Williams highlighted the bond Jones forged with founder Frank Williams and technical director Patrick Head, and the qualities that made him such an influential figure in its formative years.

"Everyone at Williams is deeply saddened to learn of Alan Jones' passing,” the team said in a statement published on social media.

"Alan was instrumental in making Williams what it is today, forming an extraordinary bond with Frank Williams and Patrick Head to become our first drivers' world champion in just our fourth season in Formula 1. He set the standard for Williams champions: a fast, uncompromising racer with a challenger mentality who loved motor racing and dedicated his life to it.

"He is a true Australian icon and a Williams legend, and he will be dearly missed. We send our love and thoughts to the Jones family and all his friends."

©WRI2

Jones' 1980 triumph was followed by another Constructors’ title for Williams in 1981, with the Aussie contributing two Grands Prix wins in a season confirming that the team's arrival at the front was no passing moment.

Across 117 Grand Prix starts, Jones recorded 12 victories and 24 podium finishes.

Read also: Alan Jones, 1980 F1 world champion, dies aged 80

But Williams’ tribute is focused less on the numbers than on the Aussie’s speed, resolve and uncompromising approach that helped set the standard for those who followed.

For Williams, Jones’ legacy is inseparable from its own beginnings: the first champion, a key partner in its formative years and a true team legend.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.