A Nation Bids Farewell to Rugby Legend Rob Burrow
Loved ones, friends, and fans came together in a heartfelt farewell to Rob Burrow, the beloved Leeds Rhinos and England rugby league star, following his passing on June 2 at the age of 41 after a courageous battle with motor neurone disease (MND).
Earlier in the month, hundreds gathered to pay tribute at Leeds Civic Hall during a special civil reception celebrating Rob’s extraordinary life and legacy. The event was hosted by the Lord Mayor of Leeds, Abigail Marshall Katung, and attended by Rob’s family along with around 180 guests, including his former teammate Jamie Jones-Buchanan, MND Association CEO Tanya Curry, and Leeds City Council leader James Lewis.
Rob passed away peacefully in a West Yorkshire hospital, just hours before the groundbreaking ceremony of a new MND research centre set to bear his name.
On July 7, as the cortege made its way to a private funeral service, streets were lined with supporters wearing Leeds Rhinos jerseys, turning the roads into a sea of blue. Junior players from Featherstone Lions ARLFC, where Rob began his journey in the sport, also came out in tribute.
The hearse, flanked by a police motorcycle, paused at the Featherstone Lions ground, where a book of condolence was made available for the public. Floral tributes in the hearse bore touching words—”Dad,” “Bro,” and “Son”—crafted in white blooms on blue cloth.
Behind the hearse followed five cars carrying Rob’s devoted wife Lindsey—his partner since their 2006 wedding—and their three children: Macy, Maya, and Jackson. Also accompanying them were Rob’s parents, Geoff and Irene, and his sisters, Joanne Hartshorne and Claire Burnett.
Rob had been diagnosed with MND in 2019 and became a powerful voice and advocate for those living with the disease. His final message, shared after his passing, resonated deeply with all who heard it:
“In a world full of adversity, we must still dare to dream.”
His wife Lindsey offered a poignant tribute, saying:
“Rob made the world a better place.”