Alan Jones, one of only two Australians to win the Formula One world championship, died on Thursday days after his 80th birthday. Jones won 12 grands prix across his career and became world title-holder in 1980, joining Jack Brabham as the only Australians to have done so. Jones -- whose birthday was on Monday -- died after a brief illness. 

"He will be dearly missed and fondly remembered by those closest to him, as well as the many fans whose support he was always grateful for," said a statement released on behalf of his wife Amanda Butler-Davis, according to national broadcaster ABC.