29 Years Between Pole Positions for Aussie F1 Drivers

If you are an Australian Formula 1 fan, then today is a very special day as Mark Webber will start the German Grand Prix tonight from pole position!

The last time an Australian started from pole was when Alan Jones claimed the top spot in the German Grand Prix on August 10th, 1980. Jones took pole in his Ford Cosworth powered Williams FW07B ahead of Renault team mates Jean-Pierre Jabouille and Rene Arnoux.

Jones scored six pole positions and twelve wins in his ten season F1 career. In 1980 at the Hockenheimring, Jones led for thirteen laps but fell to third at the finish behind Lafittes Ligier and Reutemann in the other Williams. Lets hope Webber does not repeat this statistic and goes on to claim his first Formula 1 win.

On a personal note having competed against Mark in Australian Formula Ford in 1995 and 1996, I’m thrilled to see him having such a great season. He’s finally got great car at his disposal and to put it on pole after 129 attempts must be quite a relief!

Check out this video with some great highlights from Jonesy’s 1980 season. Shame about the soundtrack, but the sight of those Williams sliding around Monaco make it worthwhile viewing.