Jones writes history

Alan Jones slides into the cramped cockpit of his Williams FW07, while his teammate Carlos Reutemann is already ready to battle, at Long Beach where the 1980 United States Grand Prix West will be held (photo above).

However, it was Nelson Piquet at the wheel of his Brabham BT49 who would dominate this event, taking pole position, the fastest lap in the race, and the first F1 victory of his young career. This race would unfortunately also be the last for Clay Regazzoni, who, at the wheel of his Ensign, would be the victim of a horrible accident that left him paralysed…

It would be a disappointing race for the two Williams boys, who, for once, were forced to retire. Alan Jones, at the top of his game, would nevertheless have the opportunity to redeem himself, winning five Grand Prix and being crowned Formula 1 world champion at the end of the year. Reutemann would finish third in the final standings, allowing Williams to win its first constructors’ title.