Remembering Rob Burrow: Rugby League Icon and Charitable Advocate Passes Away at 41
The passing of Rob Burrow, the beloved rugby league icon known for his courage in the face of motor neuron disease, has left a profound impact. His legacy of resilience and advocacy will forever be remembered by fans and supporters worldwide. Leeds Rhinos confirmed the heartbreaking news of his demise at the age of 41, stirring emotions across the rugby community.
Former rugby league star Rob Burrow, known for his quiet strength and tireless efforts to raise awareness about motor neuron disease (MND), passed away at the age of 41, as confirmed by his former team, Leeds Rhinos, on Sunday.
Together with his wife, Lindsey, and his friend and former teammate Kevin Sinfield, Burrow successfully raised nearly £20 million ($25.5 million) to support the fight against MND. This included over £6 million ($7.6 million) dedicated to establishing the Rob Burrow Centre for MND in Leeds, northern England. The center aims to improve the quality of life for individuals battling the progressive disease.
Rob Burrow became a Leeds Rhinos legend during his rugby league career.
Rob Burrow became a Leeds Rhinos legend during his rugby league career.
Daniel L Smith/Getty Images
There is currently no cure for MND, which eventually causes muscles to weaken, affecting a person’s ability to walk, talk, eat, drink and breathe.
Prince William honored Burrow and Sinfield with their CBE honors in January, calling Burrow "a legend of Rugby League" on Twitter.
He praised Burrow for having a huge heart and teaching others to "dare to dream" in the face of adversity. Prince William also sent his love to Burrow's family.
Kevin Sinfield carries Rob Burrow across the marathon finish line.
Kevin Sinfield carries Rob Burrow across the marathon finish line.
Sinfield showed the power of friendship during tough times by taking on a series of tough endurance challenges. This included running seven ultramarathons in seven days and covering 101 miles in just 24 hours. His goal was to raise £7 million ($8.9 million) for MND.
Burrow showcased his exceptional skills on the rugby pitch, wowing spectators with his agile runs, impressive tries, and his ability to outmaneuver much larger opponents with his quick footwork.
During his career, he played a total of 492 games for Leeds Rhinos, representing England in 15 matches and Great Britain in five. A key player in Leeds' successful era, he contributed to eight Super League Grand Final victories, earning the Man of the Match award twice. In addition, he also secured two Challenge Cup titles, three World Club Challenge wins, and three League Leaders Shields.
After being diagnosed with MND in 2019 and told he had two years to live, Burrow gained recognition beyond the rugby league world. He and his family chose to share his journey with the disease to shed light on its effects, increase awareness, and raise funds.
Rob Burrow, wife Lindsey (who ran the half marathon), daughters Macy and Maya and Kevin Sinfield, who ran the full marathon, all pose for a picture after the Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon.
Rob Burrow, along with his wife Lindsey, who participated in the half marathon, and their daughters Macy and Maya, as well as Kevin Sinfield, who ran the full marathon, gathered together for a photo after the Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon. The picture captures the joy and sense of accomplishment shared by the group.
Burrow and his wife shared their journey through two documentaries, "My Year with MND" and "Living with MND." These films shed light on the challenges of living with the devastating disease and how it affected their young family.
Lindsey also shared her personal experiences in the documentary "Who Cares for Our Carers?" and the memoir "Take Care." These works highlighted her daily life balancing her role as a physiotherapist with caring for her husband, as well as the important work of unpaid carers throughout the UK.
“I hope Lindsey’s book will inspire people to be more like her. What a world that would be,” Burrow said on X in May.
Rob Burrow and Kevin Sinfield cross the finish line of the 2023 Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon which started and finished at Headingley Stadium, Leeds. Picture date: Sunday May 14, 2023. 72167901 (Press Association via AP Images)
Rob Burrow and Kevin Sinfield completed the 2023 Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon, which began and ended at Headingley Stadium in Leeds. The event took place on Sunday, May 14, 2023. (Photo credit: Danny Lawson/PA/AP)
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Kevin Sinfield carries friend and former teammate Rob Burrow across marathon finish line
Burrow's strong connection with his family and Sinfield became increasingly apparent as his health declined. This was highlighted by a touching moment in May 2023, when Sinfield pushed his friend in a wheelchair through the streets of Leeds for over four hours during the Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon, and then carried him over the finish line.
Reflecting on Burrow's passing on Sunday, Sinfield expressed, "It was the day that I hoped would never come."
Leeds Rhinos shared a statement from Sinfield, expressing admiration for the late individual. Sinfield described him as a great man and a wonderful friend who fought bravely until the end. He became a beacon of hope and inspiration, not just for those with MND, but for all who knew his story.
Sinfield also praised the individual for their toughness, stating that they were the toughest player he ever played with. However, after their diagnosis, they became the toughest and bravest person he had ever met.
A picture book inspired by their friendship will be released in July, with proceeds going to charity.
‘An incredible legacy’
On Sunday evening, flowers, shirts and scarves covered the ground outside Headingley Rugby Stadium, where Leeds Rhinos play, as fans left their tributes to Burrow.
Members of the public pay tribute and view flowers and messages left at Headingley Stadium in Leeds.
Members of the public pay tribute and view flowers and messages left at Headingley Stadium in Leeds.
Danny Lawson/PA Images
British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Keir Starmer, leader of the opposition Labour Party, are currently engaged in a national election campaign. Despite their busy schedules, both leaders took a moment to express their sadness at the passing of Rob Burrow.
Starmer shared a heartfelt message on social media, acknowledging Burrow's remarkable efforts in raising awareness and advocating for individuals with Motor Neurone Disease. He extended his thoughts and condolences to Burrow's family and friends during this difficult time.
Sunak praised Burrow as a source of inspiration for all who knew him and heard his remarkable story. He mentioned that Burrow has left behind a remarkable legacy.
Burrow is survived by his wife, Lindsey, and their three children.
Editor's P/S:
Rob Burrow's passing is a profound loss for the world of rugby and beyond. His unwavering spirit and relentless advocacy for motor neuron disease awareness have inspired countless lives. Burrow's legacy extends far past his athletic achievements, as his contributions to the fight against MND have made a tangible difference for those affected by this debilitating condition. The establishment of the Rob Burrow Centre for MND is a testament to his unwavering determination to improve the lives of others.
The outpouring of grief and tributes following Burrow's passing is a testament to his profound impact on society. From fellow athletes and celebrities to ordinary citizens, many have come together to honor his memory and continue his mission. His story serves as a reminder of the power of human resilience, the importance of supporting those in need, and the enduring legacy that can be created through adversity.
