Top News

England and British & Irish Lions captain Maro Itoje has shared the devastating news that his mother, Florence, has passed away. The 31-year-old lock was appointed captain of his country before last year's Six Nations, where Steve Borthwick's team secured second place, before Andy Farrell selected him to lead the Lions squad during their Australian tour last summer. Featuring in every minute of the opening two Tests against the Wallabies, Itoje guided the tourists to their first series triumph in 12 years.

Away from rugby, he also married his model wife, Mimi, in a beautiful ceremony in August. But posting on Instagram on Friday morning, Itoje disclosed that whilst he had enjoyed tremendous personal and professional achievements in 2025, it was simultaneously "the most difficult year" of his life, with his mother's death in December.

Describing her passing as "the biggest and most painful loss," the Saracens forward posted a photograph of himself with his parents, alongside another of him and his mum at his wedding, and honoured her as "the glue and heartbeat" of his family.

"For many reasons, 2025 was one of the best years of my life, due to both personal and professional milestones and achievements," he wrote.

"Despite this, it was also the most difficult year of my life as my mother unfortunately passed away in December, 2025. This was by far the biggest and most painful loss that I have ever experienced.

"She was my confidant, gist partner, friend, advisor, teacher and my comfort. There is no part of my life where she has not positively impacted!

**EXPRESS SPORT ON FB! **Get all the best sports news and much more on our Facebook page

"I thank God for her life and to be lucky enough to be called her son. She was the glue and heartbeat of our family and she leaves a hole that will never be filled. I take comfort through my faith and belief that she is in Heaven looking down on us and guiding us from up there. May she rest in perfect peace. Love you Mama."

Among those offering their sympathies was Itoje's England colleague Jamie George, whose own mother died just before his appointment as England captain in 2024, responding to the post with two heart emojis.

England backs Henry Slade and Marland Yarde similarly expressed their condolences through emojis, whilst Manu Vunipola wrote: "My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family."

Former Saracens player Elliott Obatoyinbo commented: "So sorry Maz. May she rest in peace," whilst Wales international Liam Williams' wife Sophie Harries extended her sympathies, stating: "So sorry Maro, she was so wonderful".

Television presenter AJ Odudu also expressed her condolences, commenting: "My condolences to you and all your family. May she rest in peace."