Rugby league is mourning the loss of Queensland and Australian Test legend Sam Backo, who has passed away at the age of 64.
Backo, one of the most fearsome forwards of the 1980s, made history as a trailblazing Indigenous front-rower, representing the Canberra Raiders, Brisbane Broncos, Queensland Maroons, and the Australian Kangaroos with distinction.
He is best remembered for his rampaging performances in the 1988 Ashes series against Great Britain, where he became the first Australian forward to score tries in all three Tests of a series — earning Player of the Series honours and legendary status.
A proud Indigenous man and revered figure in North Queensland, Backo’s impact on and off the field paved the way for countless players of First Nations heritage.
He played 6 Tests for Australia, 7 games for Queensland (State of Origin), and over 100 first-grade matches across the NSWRL competition.
Backo was inducted into the NRL Indigenous Team of the Century in 2008 and remains one of rugby league’s most influential figures.
Tributes have begun to pour in from across the game, including former teammates, fans, and the rugby league community.
Rugby League Zone sends its deepest condolences to Sam Backo’s family, friends, and former teammates.
🕊️ Rest in peace, Sam Backo (1961–2025).
Rest in peace Sam Backo. Big man. Big heart. Big personality. @RaidersCanberra @QLDmaroons @Kangaroos @leedsrhinos @brisbanebroncos
— Andrew Voss (@AndrewVossy) August 3, 2025
Deeply sad news overnight in Australia that 80’s fans favourite ‘Slammin’ Sam Backo has passed away aged 64.
Sam played seven State of Origin games for Queensland and six Tests for Australia and won the Yorkshire Cup with Leeds in 1988.
Our thoughts are with his family and… pic.twitter.com/9viN3aqM9B
— Leeds Rhinos (@leedsrhinos) August 3, 2025