Rob Burrow, Leeds Rhinos and Great Britain rugby league star has died at Pinderfields Hospital in Wakefield.
The 41-year-old sportsman was diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND) in 2019, just two weeks after his retirement.
Throughout his successful career of 17 years, Burrow eight Super League Grand Finals, three World Club Challenges and two Challenge Cups.
His passing was announced by the Rhinos.
“Rob inspired the entire country with his brave battle against Motor Neurone Disease (MND) since his diagnosis in December 2019. He passed away peacefully at Pinderfields Hospital near his home surrounded by his loving family after becoming ill earlier this week,” their statement read.
“Burrow played his entire career with Leeds Rhinos and won every honour with the club as part of their golden generation. A hard working and dedicated player, his fearless performances made him one of the most respected players in the Rhinos ranks.”
Following his diagnosis, Burrow and fellow teammate Kevin Sinfield raised more than £15m for charity in less than five years. In 2024, the two were awarded CBEs for their services to MND by Prince William.
The prince congratulated them on their “phenomenal” efforts raising funds and awareness for the disease.
Burrow was paid tribute by his many friends and fans who gathered at Leeds Civic Hall during a funeral reception.
Among them were his former teammate Jamie Jones-Buchanan, MND Association CEO Tanya Curry, and Leeds City Council leader James Lewis. The event was organized by Abigail Marshall Katung, the Lord Mayor of Leeds.
Supporters wearing Leeds Rhinos shirts lined the streets as the funeral procession headed to a private service for Burrow. His wife Lindsay and his tree children, Macy, Maya and Jackson, were among them. The hearse stopped at Featherstone Lions’ ground, where Burrow first played junior rugby.
“For those who knew Rob throughout his life, his determination and spirit in the face of MND over the last four and a half years came as no surprise,” the statement by the Rhinos read.
“Rob never accepted that he couldn’t do something. He just found his way of doing it better than anyone else.
“He will continue to inspire us all every day. In a world full of adversity. We must dare to dream.”
We are so very sorry for this tragic loss. May he rest in peace.
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