4 June 2024

New Zealand Rugby League offers our deep and sincere condolences to the whānau, friends, and communities of English rugby league legend Rob Burrow who passed away on June 2 in Wakefield, England.

We pay tribute to Burrow who had an exceptional 17-year career with the Leeds Rhinos and Great Britain including eight Super League Grand Final wins, three World Club Challenges and two Challenge Cups.

He then bravely battled Motor Neurone Disease (MND) after being diagnosed in 2019. He became an extraordinary advocate for the degenerative disease, relentlessly raising awareness as well as funds including millions to help build a new care centre for MND patients.

New Zealand Rugby League CEO Greg Peters shared, “Our condolences to Rob Burrow’s family and the wider RFL whānau on his passing.

The amazing player that he was, came almost secondary to his final battle and all that he stood for. His bravery and strength through all the adversity he faced, and all with a smile and time for people, was an inspiration to us all.

Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone in UK rugby league who mourn him, kia kaha.”