1981 Drivers' Championship (Alan Jones)
The first Australian World Champion since Sir Jack Brabham, Jones drove Williams to its maiden title in 1980.
Alan Stanley Jones (born 2 November 1946) is an Australian former racing driver and broadcaster, who competed in Formula One between 1975 and 1986. Jones won the Formula One World Drivers' Championship in 1980 with Williams, and won 12 Grands Prix across ten seasons.
Quick Facts
- Champion
- Alan Jones
- Constructor
- Williams FW07C (Ford-Cosworth DFV)
Lore & Background
Jones won five Can-Am races in 1978: Atlanta, Mosport, Road America, Mid-Ohio, and Riverside. He finished second at Charlotte, retired through accident at St Jovite, lost a radiator at Watkins Glen, and finished third at Trois-Rivières. He also won one Can-Am race in 1979 at Mid-Ohio.
Reader's Guide
Jones finished third in the 1981 Drivers' Championship, four points behind champion Nelson Piquet and three behind teammate Carlos Reutemann. Despite missing the title, the Autocourse editor awarded Jones the No. 1 driver of the season for 1981, stating that 'in 1981 Alan Jones was outstanding, his racing instincts sharper than ever, his driving aggressive and confident.'
Did You Know?
- Jones won the 1980 Australian Grand Prix at Calder Park Raceway, lapping the field of mostly Formula 5000 cars in his Williams FW07B.
- Jones was awarded the No. 1 driver of the season by Autocourse editor from 1979 to 1981.
Frequently Asked Questions
What car did Alan Jones drive to win in 1981?
Jones piloted the Williams FW07C, which was powered by a naturally aspirated Ford-Cosworth DFV engine. This machine proved superior despite facing stiff competition from turbocharged rivals like Renault.
How did the points system work during the 1981 season?
Points were awarded to the top six finishers in each race, with only the best eleven results counting toward the final standings. This rule helped Jones maintain his lead despite a competitive season.
Who were Alan Jones' main rivals for the 1981 title?
Jones faced intense competition from Carlos Reutemann and Nelson Piquet in the final standings, as well as the emerging threat of turbocharged Renaults. His ability to outperform these teams defined his championship campaign.
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