Leeds Rhinos announced on Sunday that Rob Burrow has sadly died at the age of 41 after a five-year battle with Motor Neurone Disease.
Burrow became an inspiration to many for the way he reacted to his diagnosis back in 2019, following which he was given just two years to live. Alongside former team-mate Kevin Sinfield, he helped to raise more han £13million for MND charities.
Following confirmation of Burrow's death, the MND Association posted on social media saying: "We’re deeply saddened to learn of the death of our patron Rob Burrow CBE. Since his MND diagnosis in 2019, Rob has played a vital role in raising awareness and money to support our work. We will be forever grateful. Our thoughts are with Rob’s family, friends and fans."
Tributes have been pouring in for the former England star, who won eight Super League titles, two Challenge Cups and three World Club Challenge cups during a 16-year career, which he spent entirely at Leeds Rhinos.
Emotional groundbreaking
Kevin Sinfield has helped break the ground for the building of a centre for the treatment of motor neurone disease which will bare the name of Rob Burrow.
Burrow passed away aged 41 on Sunday, four and a half years after being diagnosed with MND. He and his former Leeds Rhinos and England team-mate Sinfield have raised around £15million for charitable causes in recent years and, fittingly, one of those projects took a significant step on Monday.
Before he died, Burrow told his wife Lindsey that he wanted the opening ceremony for the £6m Rob Burrow Centre for Motor Neurone Disease, at Seacroft Hospital in Leeds, to go ahead. That is exactly what happened on Monday morning as Sinfield joined forces with Rob's family for an emotional groundbreaking.
Burrow's legacy hailed
The My Name'5 Doddie Foundation, set up by Scottish rugby union player Doddie Weir, have spoken of the impact Burrow's legacy will have on MND sufferers.
Weir was diagnosed with MND in 2016 and passed away in 2022, with Burrow previously calling him his "MND hero". Weir's foundation said: "It is with profound sadness that we learn of the passing of Rob Burrow, a true friend and fierce advocate in the fight against motor neurone disease.
"Rob was a remarkable athlete but, more importantly, an extraordinary human being. Doddie and Rob shared a unique bond, both as legendary rugby players and as warriors against this devastating disease.
"Rob’s efforts, alongside Kevin Sinfield, have galvanised the MND community and beyond, raising significant funds and awareness. Rob’s spirit and unwavering positivity in the face of adversity have left an indelible mark. His journey, shared so openly, has brought much-needed attention to MND, and his legacy will inspire future generations.
"Our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to Rob’s wife Lindsey, their children Macy, Maya, and Jackson, and all of Rob’s family and friends. The rugby community and the MND community have lost a giant, but the impact of Rob’s work and spirit will endure. We remain committed to a world free of MND, driven by the memory and example of incredible people like Rob, and we will continue to push forward in our quest for a cure."
Broad pays tribute
England cricket legend Stuart Broad has also paid tribute to Burrow, having spent time with him and his wife Lindsey just last week.
"Thinking of Rob Burrow’s family at this time," Broad wrote on social media. "Motor Neurone Disease is so cruel. Rob, his family & community have raised so much awareness & funds that will give us a chance to find a cure. I was with him & Lindsey last week, both incredible people."
Thinking of Rob Burrow’s family at this time. Motor Neurone Disease is so cruel. Rob, his family & community have raised so much awareness & funds that will give us a chance to find a cure. I was with him & Lindsey last week, both incredible people https://t.co/J96GkC8oW9
— Stuart Broad (@StuartBroad8) June 2, 2024
Work begins on Burrow's MND centre
Work is set to start today on the Rob Burrow Centre for Motor Neurone Disease and Esther Wakeman, Chief executive of Leeds Hospitals Charity, said: "Today the plan is to put a spade in the ground, to start building the centre.
"We still have a million pounds to raise, but we are confident that the community will continue to get behind this. This is something which will stand there for many years supporting patients and their families and that's what Rob wanted."
Rooney hails Burrow
Manchester United and England legend Wayne Rooney has also paid tribute to Burrow.
"Devastating news," Rooney wrote on social media. "A true warrior, legend and inspiration. You will be missed Rob. Love and thoughts with all Rob’s family and friends."
Houghton joins tributes
Ex-England captain Steph Houghton paid an emotional tribute to Rob Burrow, who died at the age of 41, expressing her "devastation" at the rugby league legend's passing.
Burrow was diagnosed with motor neurone disease in 2019, just two years after hanging up his boots following an illustrious playing career - helping Leeds Rhinos, his only club, to dominate the sport and win eight Super League titles.
The diagnosis arrived just one year after Houghton's husband and former Liverpool footballer Stephen Darby was diagnosed with the illness at the age of 29, three months after Darby married former Manchester City defender Houghton and forcing him to retire from the sport.
Both Burrow and Darby have been stalwarts in their respective battles to raise awareness in the battle against the illness, transcending sport itself to do so. And Houghton paid tribute to Burrow on Instagram, writing on her story: "Devastated doesn't come close. Words can't describe our love for Rob! Sending all our love to Lindsay and the family. We are always here for you! Xx".
Nugent pays tribute
BBC Breakfast presenter Sally Nugent has paid tribute to Burrow, having become friends with him while covering his battle with MND.
When asked what she would remember, Nugent said: “How funny he is. How much he is with everyone, no matter who you are. These images here – spending time with the kids in the garden, going on a caravan holiday with them up in North Yorkshire, where actually, do you know what they did? In this desperate circumstance, they just cracked on and got on with life. Kevin Sinfield said something really important, he said: ‘Rob shows us how to live and Lindsey shows us how to love.’ And that’s the thing I will remember from both of them.
“Rob refused to give in, in the face of this horrific diagnosis, he refused to give in and he fought for every single breath – and he did that for his family and his children. I guess this morning I reflect on how Lindsey, Macy, Maya and Jackson are, his gorgeous kids, his lovely mum and dad, Geoff and Irene, who welcomed us into their home like we were family and looked after us actually. Ironically, we were going to film with them but we were very well looked after and protected by them, like we were part of the family straight away. I think if we could all be a bit more Burrow, life would be much nicer.”
Burrow's final wish
Rob Burrow told his wife Lindsey that he wanted the groundbreaking at a new centre for the treatment of motor neurone disease to go ahead on Monday.
Leeds Rhinos confirmed on Sunday that Burrow had passed away at the age of 41 following a battle with motor neurone disease (MND). He was diagnosed with MND in late 2019, two years after he had retired from playing rugby league with Leeds, who he won eight Super League Grand Finals, three World Club Challenges and two Challenge Cups with.
His story has touched the nation and he and his Leeds team-mate Kevin Sinfield have raised around £15million for charitable causes connected with MND. Burrow's legacy will live on through his friends, family and those he touched, as well as through the Rob Burrow Centre for Motor Neurone Disease, which is being built at Seacroft Hospital in Leeds.
The Rob Burrow Centre for MND
Professor Phil Wood, chief executive of Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, paid tribute to Burrow after he raised £6million to build the Rob Burrow Centre for Motor Neurone Disease in Leeds.
Wood told BBC Breakfast: “His commitment to getting this over the line. And of course we should acknowledge the work of Kevin Sinfield, in particular, the seven in seven team, his astonishing fundraising helped our partner charity get to this point and realise this vision.
“The determination of Rob and Lindsey, who has been absolutely by his side, and is one of our staff members who has continued to look after her own patients throughout during all of this, which I think is absolutely inspiring. It’s a great day for patients and families, not just for Leeds but the wider region. We are very proud of our role in treating this devastating disease.”
A lasting legacy
A new centre for motor neurone disease is being built at Seacroft Hospital in Rob Burrow’s name.
Rob’s friend Phil Daly told BBC Breakfast: “We mentioned the groundbreaking, we will have the groundbreaking today, that was Rob’s wishes. We spoke to Lindsay on Friday and that’s what Rob said. We can’t waste a day and Rob wouldn’t want us to waste a day, we start today.
“It’s no reflection of the NHS staff who looked after Rob – they did a great job – but the facilities just aren’t up to scratch. When you’re given that diagnosis in the facilities that are there now, it makes the whole situation so much worse. This centre will be somewhere where people can get their diagnosis and actually find out the next steps. Rob was at the heart of planning for it – there will be family areas there to help children understand in an environment that is comforting.”
Tributes paid at Headingley
"A testament to two chapters of a life that's been well lived"
Jamie Jones-Buchanan has paid tribute to his former Leeds teammate Rob Burrow, telling BBC Breakfast: "He had a gift and he used that gift to find a purpose and his purpose was to do what Rob did – be courageous, be world class.
"We spoke many times about how small he was and how people, as a young person, doubted his ability to play rugby league. He used that strength, that gift not just to prove everybody wrong, but that was his superpower.
"That try he scored in 2011 that we see played so often, one of the best tries in a Grand Final – I remember him talking about it and reflecting that he would either going to take on the big two guys that he ducked under and score a try, or get knocked into next week.
"Rob got knocked into next week on many occasions – he would do that for his team-mates, that is was he’d give – but on that occasion he scored a try and it became an iconic moment and I think that was a true reflection of what he brought. For Leeds Rhinos, he found that belonging.
"We love him – the sentiment, the well wishes that have been pouring in, in remembrance of Rob and reflecting on the legacy that he’ll leave behind for us all to continue, I think it’s just a testament to two chapters of a life that’s been well lived.
"Rob stood out – he was brave, he was courageous, he spoke in a world that lacks a lot of courage, a lot of people with anxiety, I think that physical ability was his superpower, and it’s what shone. That was robbed from him, living with MND, but the courage never waned at all, if anything it shone even brighter.
"The love and impression he’s left on everybody to get up and speak, fight for what’s important, for the MND community. And to do it with his team-mates, not least Kev, has transcended, not just rugby league and sport but the nation. The legacy that he’ll leave is the people that he’s impressed so many important things upon.
"This journey from December 15, 2019, when I first heard about it, until June 2, 2024 – those two dates and what happened in between will never leave him. It charges me every single day – not just me, all of us who wear that blue and amber badge to transcend the nation and the rugby league community continues to come together to remember Rob, what he’s done and why he’s done it and what we need to keep doing to make sure it’s a legacy that Rob’s left and a life fulfilled."
MND fundraising
Rob Burrow CBE has passed away at the age of 41 following a lengthy battle with motor neurone disease.
The "legend of Rugby League" spent his entire career with Leeds Rhinos, helped them win eight Super League titles and represented Great Britain. After being diagnosed with the disease two years after retiring in 2017, the MND Association said Burrow "used every opportunity to raise awareness of the disease".
Burrow raised millions alongside former teammate Kevin Sinfield to raise awareness of the disease. He helped raise more than £15million, including more than £6m to build a Rob Burrow Centre for MND in Leeds.
Last year, Sinfield completed an emotional Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon by carrying his former teammate over the finishing line. Sinfield ran the inaugural marathon pushing his dear friend the 26.2 miles distance in May 2023. After reaching the line at 4 hours and 22 minutes, Sinfield picked up Burrow out of his chair to carry him the final few metres to a rapturous ovation from the crowds.
That's all from us
Thanks for joining us on what has been a sad day for rugby league and the world of sport. Rest in peace Rob Burrow.
Sinfield speaks
Kevin Sinfield has paid tribute to his close friend Rob Burrow after his death.
He said: “Today was the day that I hoped would never come. The world has lost a great man and a wonderful friend to so many. You fought so bravely until the end and became a beacon of hope and inspiration, not only for the MND community but for all those who saw and heard your story.
“My love and thoughts go to your beautiful family, Lindsey, Macy, Maya and Jackson, to your parents Geoff and Irene, sisters Joanne and Claire and your wider family and friends.
“You will continue to inspire me every single day. I have lost a dear friend and will never forget the special times we shared both on and off the pitch. I would always say that you were pundits for pound the toughest player I ever played alongside, however, since your diagnosis, you were the toughest and bravest man I have ever met.
“The last four and a half years you showed the world what living and loving looked like and this was always done with the biggest smile on your face.
“I will miss you my little mate. All my love, Kev. X”
Tribute from the Pride of Britain Awards
"A giant of a man, whose greatness shone through every single day.
"Sending love to Lindsey, Macy, Maya and Jackson, and of course Kevin and the whole Leeds Rhinos family.
"Go well Rob. You were the very best of us."
Close friend Walker pays tribute
Dan Walker has paid an emotional tribute to his “inspirational” friend and former rugby league star Rob Burrow.
“He was the little fella who made a massive impact on the pitch and an even bigger one off it,” Walker began in a post on Twitter/X.
“Rob Burrow taught us so much in the way he dealt with his MND diagnosis and inspired millions with his continued determination and desire to make a difference for others. Sending all my love to Lindsey and their kids, his sisters, his mum and dad and all those who will miss him so much."
A touching tribute to one of rugby's greats
Rob Burrow was an inspiration to the human race - both on AND off the pitch.
One of the Rugby League greats of his generation, winning eight Grand Finals, three World Club Challenges and two Challenge Cups. But it will be inevitable that Burrow will also be remembered for what he achieved after hanging up his boots.
Because, believe me, I've witnessed first hand the true horrors Motor Neurone Disease inflicts on those unfortunate to have it. And the courage, determination and bravery it takes to fight it.
Burrow had all of the above in spades, meeting the battle with MND head on to raise awareness of the cruel illness. This meant letting people into his life for a glimpse of the stark realities him and his family had to face.
He once sat the top of his sport, but ended his life stripped of his dignity by something which refuses to discriminate. But he did so with a big smile on his face.
He did so with a determination to make sure the fight others he now leaves behind still have, might just be that little bit easier in the future because of him. Giving up was never in his DNA.
This makes the likeable Burrow an example to us all when it comes to dealing with adversity. He leaves behind a huge legacy, not just for his achievements as a player, but those as a man in general.
Only special people can lay claim to this - and Burrow was one of a kind. RIP mate. You will be forever missed.
Sport pays tribute
Tributes are pouring in from across the world of sport.
Rugby union side Leicester Tigers wrote: "We join the sporting community in mourning the loss of Rob Burrow. Rob inspired communities across the world through his efforts raising awareness and money aiding in the fight against MND. Our thoughts are with Rob’s family, our dear friend Kevin Sinfield and Leeds Rhinos."
Tigers' rivals Gloucester added: "Gloucester Rugby is devastated to learn of the passing of Rob Burrow CBE. MND is regrettably a disease close to all our hearts. The tireless work of Rob, Lindsey and the Burrow family to help those affected, and to work towards a cure, will forever be a lasting legacy in the fight against MND. To the Burrow Family. Our thoughts are with you now and always."
Premier League Everton said: "Premier League Everton said: "Incredibly sad news. Rob was an inspirational figure who transcended sport. The thoughts of everyone at #EFC are with his family, friends and former colleagues. RIP, Rob."
League Two football team Bradford City tweeted: "Devastating news. Rob Burrow CBE was an inspiration to us all. A true warrior, who will be dearly missed. Our thoughts are with Rob’s loved ones, Leeds Rhinos and the MND community."
Slater sends emotional thank you
Fellow MND suffer Ed Slater has added his own tribute to Burrow.
Slater enjoyed a 12-year career in rugby union, becoming captain of Gloucester and winning the Premiership with Leicester Tigers.
But he was forced to retire in 2022 after being diagnosed with MND and became a close friend of Burrow's.
Slater posted a picture of himself with Burrow and wrote: "Thank you Rob. RIP. You inspired so many people with and without MND alongside your beautiful family and friends. Say hello to the big giraffe."
Tribute from Prince William
The Prince of Wales has paid tribute to Rob Burrow, who has died aged 41, describing him as a “legend of Rugby League” who had a “huge heart”, adding: “He taught us, ‘in a world full of adversity, we must dare to dream’.”
Burrow family release statement
The family of Rob Burrow have paid a wonderful tribute to the rugby league legend following his death after a lengthy battle with motor neurone disease.
Their statement read: “It is with deep sadness that we announce the death of our beloved son, husband, father, brother and friend.
“Rob has always been a true inspiration throughout his life whether that was on the rugby league field or during his battle with MND (motor neurone disease). He never allowed others to define what he could achieve and believed in his own ability to do more.
“The outpouring of love and support that Rob and the whole Burrow family have received over the last four and a half years meant so much to Rob.
“In particular, the rugby league family and MND community have rallied around Rob to inspire him, thank you for your support. 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.
“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.”
Political leaders remembers Burrow
The leader of the opposition Keir Starmer has paid tribute to Burrow's charity work.
Starmer said: "Extremely sad news. Rob leaves behind an incredible legacy in his work to raise awareness and advocate for those with Motor Neurone Disease. My thoughts are with his family and friends through this time."
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak wrote: “Rob was an inspiration to everyone who met him or who heard his incredible story. I was honoured to spend some time with him last year. He drove a fundraising campaign that supports vital new research improving the care for others – not least through the creation of The Rob.”
Labour's shadow home secretary and Yorkshire MP Yvette Cooper has added her own tribute to Burrow.
Cooper wrote: "This is just devastating news. Rob was the greatest inspiration for so many people - a true hero who showed incredible strength as well as such deep care & compassion for others. He will be deeply missed. Thinking of Lindsey & all Rob’s wonderful family with very much love."
Former team-mate pens emotional message
Former team-mate Jordan Lilley has penned an emotional tribute to Burrow.
He wrote: "An absolute hero, gutted. RIP mate, be truly missed by all. Thank you for all you did for me coming through, it’ll never be forgotten. A true true legend."
Sky Sports post highlights of Burrow's career
Rob Burrow, a legend who will never be forgotten pic.twitter.com/Prv7Bi702t
— Sky Sports Rugby League (@SkySportsRL) June 2, 2024
MND Association statement in full
It is with great sadness that the MND Association has learnt of the death of our patron Rob Burrow CBE, four and half years after his diagnosis of motor neurone disease.
Our thoughts today are with Rob’s wife Lindsey, children Macy, Maya and Jackson, family and friends and the rugby community.
Rob, who played at number 7 for Leeds Rhinos, lived with this brutal disease in the public eye after choosing to announce his diagnosis shortly before Christmas 2019. He used every opportunity to raise awareness of the disease, speaking publicly, undertaking media interviews and opening his life up in two moving BBC documentaries My Year With MND and Rob Burrow: Living With MND.
He remained a consistent and passionate advocate for people with MND – he became the first person to use a communications aid to read a bedtime story on CBeebies. And he joined the United To End MND coalition which successfully campaigned for a £50million Government investment in targeted MND research.
In doing so much, he inspired 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 more than £7 million for MND charities, including the MND Association. Rob and Kev’s friendship made headline news around the world. Thousands of well-wishers, not just in rugby’s heartland, but across the country donated, took on fundraising challenges and pledged support in tribute to Rob’s bravery.
Rob’s contribution to rugby league and awareness of MND were recognised in the 2021 New Year’s Honours List when he was made an 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 Honours list.
It is testament to the strength of feeling people have for Rob that the support in his name has never wavered.
The MND Association is incredibly grateful to Rob and his family for helping to raise awareness of MND, and funds for the Association, by sharing the details of their journey and by inspiring so many people both within the MND community and the wider public.
Super League clubs pay tribute
Leeds' Super League rivals have rushed to pay tribute to Burrow.
The London Broncos said: "London Broncos sends our sincere condolences to the family of Rob Burrow and all associated with Leeds Rhinos. Our thoughts are with you during this difficult time."
The Huddersfield Giants wrote: "The Huddersfield Giants send our best thoughts and wishes to the Burrow family, and Leeds Rhinos in this difficult time."
St Helens tweeted: "Everyone at St.Helens R.F.C. is deeply saddened to learn about the passing of Rob Burrow. A hero in every sense of the word. Our condolences go out to all of Rob’s friends, family and loved ones at this sad time, and everyone involved at the Leeds Rhinos."
Wigan Warriors said: "Everyone at Wigan Warriors is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Rob Burrow CBE. His legacy will live on through those whose lives he touched, and his story will continue to inspire all. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and all at Leeds Rhinos."
Leeds statement in full
"It is with deep sadness that the club can confirm that former player Rob Burrow CBE has passed away, aged 41.
"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 Pinderfield’s Hospital near his home surrounded by his loving family after becoming ill earlier this week.
"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.
"Rob rose through the club’s Academy ranks to make 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 2007 and 2011 Old Trafford showpieces. The 2011 game included his breathtaking try that is still regarded as the greatest Grand Final try ever scored.
"In total he made 492 appearances for the club, placing him in fifth in the club’s all-time list of career appearances. He scored 196 tries for a total of 1,103 points. He was capped 15 times by England and played five more tests for Great Britain including a Man of the Series performance in 2007 for the national side. He won the Challenge Cup at Wembley in 2014 and 2015 as well as three World Club Challenges and three League Leaders Shields.
"Following his MND diagnosis in December 2019, Burrow and his family took the decision to open their doors to show the impact of the disease and raise awareness and funds for the MND community. Since then Burrow has inspired two award winning documentaries, wrote a best selling autobiography, hosted an award winning podcast and was awarded a CBE from HRH Prince William at AMT Headingley in January 2023.
"Along with his friend and former team mate Kevin Sinfield, Burrow has inspired nearly £20 million in fundraising across the UK and Ireland. This has included raising over £6 million to build the Rob Burrow Centre for MND in Leeds as a lasting legacy for those who follow him in their own personal battles with the disease.
"On behalf of the Burrow family, we would like to thank the staff at Pindersfield Hospital for their compassion and caring for Rob in his final days. Fittingly, as a tribute to the incredible work done by Rob, the groundbreaking of the new Rob Burrow Centre for MND at Seacroft Hospital on Monday will go ahead as planned at Rob's request. At this time, we would ask that everyone respect the privacy of the Burrow family.
"Well wishers who wish to pay their respects to Rob can do so in the South Stand at Rob's beloved Headingley Stadium, with the gates open from Sunday evening for visitors to come."
Shearer leads tributes
Newcastle legend Alan Shearer has led the tributes to Burrow.
He tweeted: "Ah man. What a guy. What an inspiration. What a hero. A warrior. A Legend. Sleep easy Rob."
Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham said: "What a player and what a person. It was an honour to know Rob and to support him. He will always be with us and we will carry on the fight against MND in his memory. Love to all the Burrow family."
Broadcaster Piers Morgan added: "What incredibly sad news. A remarkable man who fought wretched Motor Neurone Disease with such courage, fortitude & determination. He raised so much money, and so much awareness, and helped so many other people. RIP Rob."
Rob Burrow dies
Leeds Rhinos have announced that Rob Burrow has passed away at the age of 41 following a battle with motor neurone disease.
A Leeds Rhinos statement read: "It is with deep sadness that we announce the death of our beloved son, husband, father, brother and friend. Rob has always been a true inspiration throughout his life whether that was on the rugby league field or during his battle with mnd (motor neurone disease).
"He never allowed others to define what he could achieve and believed in his own ability to do more. The outpouring of love and support that rob and the whole burrow family have received over the last four and half years meant so much to Rob."