‘She’ll be cheering on from heaven’: Itoje sad his late mother will not see him win 100th cap

Guardian Sport

by Luke McLaughlin

February 20, 2026

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Maro Itoje, the England captain, will reach a significant milestone in his rugby career as he earns his 100th cap against Ireland in the Six Nations Championship on Saturday. However, the occasion holds an extra emotional weight for Itoje, who revealed that his late mother Florence would be watching over him from heaven. Despite her passing in December, Itoje expressed his belief that she would have loved the moment and felt proud of his achievement. The journey to this milestone has been a deeply personal one for Itoje. After missing the start of England’s pre-tournament training camp in Girona due to attending his mother’s funeral in Nigeria, he returned with renewed focus. Her passing, just months before this historic match, adds an extra layer of meaning to the game. Itoje’s connection to his late mother is evident in his emotional reflections on her influence and the role she played in shaping his career. For sports fans, this story resonates on multiple levels. It highlights the human side of elite athletes, revealing how personal loss and family can impact their journey to success. Itoje’s ability to channel his grief into determination and honor his mother’s memory makes him a relatable figure for readers who appreciate both the triumphs and challenges faced by sports heroes. This narrative also underscores the importance of legacy and the enduring bond between family and athlete, making it a compelling tale that transcends the game itself.

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Originally published on Guardian Sport on 2/20/2026