Maro Itoje pays heartbreaking tribute as England captains mum passes away

The Saracens lock, whose full name is Oghenemaro Miles Itoje, shared a deeply personal message on social media, describing 2025 as both “one of the best” and “most difficult” years of his life.

“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.”

Itoje went on to describe his mother as a constant presence in every part of his life, adding: “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.”

Born in Camden, London, to Nigerian parents Efe and Florence Itoje, Maro has often spoken about the importance of family, faith and culture in shaping who he is both on and off the pitch. In his tribute, he said his mother was “the glue and heartbeat” of their family.

“I thank God for her life and to be lucky enough to be called her son,” he continued. “She was the glue and heartbeat of our family and she leaves a hole that will never be filled.”

Despite the grief, Itoje said his faith has helped him cope with the loss. “I take comfort through my faith and belief that she is in Heaven looking down on us and guiding us from up there,” he wrote, before signing off: “May she rest in perfect peace. Love you Mama.”

Earlier this year, Itoje married his long-term partner Mimi, marking one of the personal milestones he referenced in his post — a moment of joy that came during an otherwise emotionally challenging year for the England and Lions skipper.