Leeds Rhinos rugby league legend Rob Burrow has died aged 41 after suffering from motor neurone disease.

Former England international Rob Burrow has died aged 41 after a long battle with motor neurone disease.

Burrow spent his entire rugby league career with Leeds Rhinos and helped them win eight Super League titles.

He retired in 2017 and two years later it was revealed that Burrow had been diagnosed with MND.

He raised millions to help build a new care center for MND patients alongside former teammate Kevin Sinfield.

Burrow’s death was confirmed by his former club Leeds on Sunday evening.

A statement on the club’s official website said: “It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved son, husband, father, brother and friend.

“Rob has always been a true inspiration throughout his life, whether it 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 entire Burrow family have received over the past four and a half years has meant so much to Rob. In particular the rugby league family and the MND community rallied around Rob to inspire him, thank you for your support.

“For those who have known Rob throughout his life, his determination and spirit to the MND over the past four and a half years has come as no surprise.

“Rob never accepted that he couldn’t do something. He just found a way to do 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.”

Born in Pontefract, Burrow progressed through the Leeds academy despite his 5ft 5in frame to make his debut in 2001 and established himself as a sporting great.

The Prince of Wales paid tribute to Burrow, describing him as a “Rugby League legend” who had “a huge heart”, adding: “He taught us, ‘in a world full of adversity, we must dare let’s dream”.

Burrow’s MBE was promoted to CBE in the 2024 New Year Honours, but his death from illness was confirmed on 2 June.

“Our thoughts today are with Rob’s wife Lindsey, children Macy, Maya and Jackson, family and friends and the rugby community,” the MND Association said in a statement.

“It’s a testament to the strength of feeling people have for Rob that the support on his behalf 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 inspiring so many people in the MND community and the general public.”