Rob Burrow’s father Geoff, who was a key part of the campaigning around motor neurone disease, has sadly passed away, Leeds Rhinos have announced in a statement
Geoff Burrow with his son Rob(Image: Huddersfield Examiner)
Geoff Burrow, the father of Rob Burrow, has passed away, it has been announced. Geoff was a key part of the extraordinary awareness-raising and fundraising campaign that was started after rugby league legend Rob was diagnosed with motor neurone disease.
Leeds Rhinos said in a statement: “It is with deep sadness that the club has learned of the passing on Monday 30 th March of Geoff Burrow, the father of Rob Burrow, after a period of ill health.
“Leeds-born Geoff was a tireless campaigner for the MND community following Rob’s diagnosis in December 2019 and continued that work after Rob’s passing in June 2024.
“A devoted husband, father and a grandfather, Geoff brought Rob to his first ever game at Headingley and started his love of the Rhinos. Geoff was always a champion for those who did not have a voice throughout his career as a trade union representative.
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“The club would like to pass on our deepest condolences to Geoff’s wife Irene and the Burrow family at this sad time. We would like to ask that the family are given privacy at this time. May he rest in peace.”
Leeds legend Rob Burrow was diagnosed with MND in late 2019 and died in June 2024. He campaigned relentlessly during the final years of his life and was supported by his family and ex-teammate Kevin Sinfield, who has completed numerous incredible physical challenges to raise money.
Their work saw the Rob Burrow Centre for Motor Neurone Disease established at Seacroft Hospital in Leeds. Ground was broken in June 2024, shortly after Rob’s death, and the £6.8million centre was opened to the public in November 2025.
“Thanks to all the people who raised money,” Geoff said at the time. “It’s not just for MND sufferers and their families, but for all the staff. The staff are marvellous, they’re angels.”
Geoff helped look after Rob and his children so that Rob’s wife Lindsey could continue to work as an NHS physiotherapist. “We made sure he ended his journey on his conditions, we didn’t want any suffering… it was very peaceful,” Geoff said after Rob’s passing.
“He was in hospital. He smiled, we got sad and he gave us the look, you know ‘pack it in smile’ and what have you and we did our best.”
Warrington Wolves wrote: “Everyone at Warrington Wolves sends our love and support to the Burrow family at such a difficult time.”
Wigan Warriors added: “Everyone at Wigan Warriors sends our love and support to the Burrow family at this difficult time.”
St Helens said: “Everyone at St.Helens R.F.C. would like to send our condolences, love and support to the Burrow family at this time. Rest In Peace, Geoff.”
