The England and British & Irish Lions captain has issued a heartbreaking statement on social media
Itoje has made a tragic announcement(Image: PA)
England and British & Irish Lions star Maro Itoje has made the heartbreaking announcement that his mother Florence has died.
The 31-year-old lock was named captain of his country ahead of last year’s Six Nations in which Steve Borthwick’s side finished as runners-up, while he was appointed by Andy Farrell to lead his Lions squad on their tour of Australia last summer. Playing every minute of the first and second Tests against the Wallabies, Itoje led the tourists to their first series victory for 12 years.
Off the pitch, he also married his model wife Mimi in a stunning wedding celebration in August.
However, taking to Instagram on Friday morning, Itoje revealed that while he had experienced great personal and professional success in 2025, it was also “the most difficult year” of his life, with his mother passing away in December.
Admitting her death was “the biggest and most painful loss,” the Saracens star shared a photo of him with his parents, and another of him and his mum at his wedding, and paid tribute to 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!”
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Itoje added: “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.”
Itoje’s England teammate Jamie George – whose own mother passed away from cancer shortly before he was named England captain in 2024 – was among those to pay tribute, as he responded to the post with two heart emojis.
England backs Henry Slade and Marland Yarde also paid tribute with emojis, while Manu Vunipola wrote: “My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.”
Former Saracens star Elliott Obatoyinbo wrote: “So sorry Maz. May she rest in peace,” while Wales international Liam Williams’ wife Sophie Harries also shared her condolences, saying: “So sorry Maro, she was so wonderful”.
TV presenter AJ Odudu also paid tribute, writing: “My condolences to you and all your family. May she rest in peace.”
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