Inspirational former rugby star and motor neurone disease sufferer Rob Burrow has died at the age of 41
Inspirational former rugby star and motor neurone disease Rob Burrow has died aged 41.
The rugby player was diagnosed with the disease in 2019, just two years after retiring from a 17-season competitive career.
He won eight Super League titles with Leeds, but after being diagnosed with the disease he dedicated himself to raising awareness and funding the MND community.
He did so with the support of former Leeds teammate Kevin Sinfield.
Today a tribute. the MND Association said: “Our thoughts today are with Rob’s wife Lindsey, children Macy, Maya and Jackson, family and friends and the rugby community.
Former rugby league player Rob Burrow and his wife Lindsey pose for a photo with his medal after receiving his MBE at Windsor Castle in 2022
Burrow during the Betfred Super League semi-final between Leeds Rhinos and Hull FC at Headingley on 29 September 2017
Inspirational former rugby star and motor neuron disease Rob Burrow has died
Rob with his wife Lindsey before the Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon on May 12
Rob Burrow with his wife Lindsey (who ran the half marathon), daughters Macy and Maya and Kevin Sinfield, pictured a few weeks ago on May 12
Prince William, Prince of Wales, meets Burrow in January to congratulate him on raising awareness of motor neuron disease
Kevin Sinfield collects his BBC Special Award alongside Rob Burrow at the 2022 BBC Sports Personality of the Year Awards
‘Rob, who played at number 7 for Leeds Rhinos, lived with this brutal disease in the public eye after choosing to reveal his diagnosis shortly before Christmas 2019.
‘He took every opportunity to raise awareness of the disease, speaking publicly, doing media interviews and opening up about his life in two moving BBC documentaries My Year With MND and Rob Burrow: Living With MND.’
The charity called him a ‘consistent and passionate advocate’.
Leeds Rhinos have released a statement to express their ‘deep sadness’ at the news.
The moving tribute read: ‘Rob inspired the entire country with his courageous battle against Motor Neurone Disease (MND) since his diagnosis in December 2019. He passed away peacefully at Pinderfield’s Hospital near his home, surrounded by his loving family after falling ill earlier this week . .
‘Burrow played his entire career at Leeds Rhinos and won all honors at 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.”
The MND Association statement said: “By doing so much, he has gained support from so many. On the weekend of the Challenge Cup Final in October 2020, fans and supporters donated an incredible £70,000 to the MND Association.
‘Just two months later, Rob’s former captain Kevin Sinfield CBE took on the first of four incredible challenges, raising over £7 million for MND charities including the MND Association.
‘Rob and Kev’s friendship made headlines around the world. Thousands of well-wishers, not just in the heart of rugby, but across the country, donated, took on the fundraising challenge and pledged support in tribute to Rob’s bravery.
‘Rob’s contribution to rugby league and MND’s prominence was recognized in the 2021 New Year Honors List when he was appointed MBE and that same year Rob accepted the role of Patron of the MND Association. Rob was subsequently awarded a CBE in the 2024 New Year’s Honors List.
‘It is a testament to the strength of people’s feeling for Rob that support in his name has never wavered.
Burrow with his children, (left to right) Macy, Jackson, Maya and his wife Lindsey Burrow (right) at the start of the Arena Group Leeds Mini and Junior Run 2023 in Leeds
‘The MND Association is incredibly grateful to Rob and his family for helping to raise awareness of MND and raising funds for the Association, by sharing the details of their journey and inspiring so many people, both within the MND community as well as the wider public.’
Burrow rose through the Leeds club’s Academy ranks and made his debut in 2001.
In 2004, he was part of the Leeds team that ended a 32-year wait to win the Championship with victory in the Grand Final.
It was the first of eight grand final wins for Burrow, including winning the Man of the Match award in the Old Trafford showpieces in 2007 and 2011. The 2011 match included his breathtaking try which is still regarded as the greatest Grand Final try ever scored.
In total, he made 492 appearances for the club, ranking him fifth in the club’s all-time career appearances list.
The rugby star won the Challenge Cup at Wembley in 2014 and 2015, as well as three World Club Challenges and three League Leaders Shields.