On a grey February afternoon at the Fairmont Windsor Park hotel, the arrival of Maro and Mimi Itoje brings a palpable buzz to the room. The pair—undoubtedly one of Britain’s most prominent sporting couples—command attention not just for their individual achievements, but for the warmth and charisma they radiate together. As England’s rugby captain and a leader for both the British & Irish Lions and Saracens, Maro Itoje is no stranger to the spotlight. Standing tall at 6ft 6in, his presence is magnetic, while Mimi, his wife of nine months, exudes elegance and poise. Their affection for each other is unmistakable, as they gently tease and compliment one another over everything from romance to Pilates routines. "2025 was a wonderful year in many respects," Maro reflects, his voice tinged with both pride and gratitude. "The personal highlight was getting married to Mimi."
Their journey into married life began with a British wedding at Farm Street Church, Mayfair, in May 2025, followed by a vibrant Nigerian celebration in Covent Garden that August. The latter, rich in Urhobo tradition, saw Maro formally seek Mimi’s family’s blessing before a joyous party that fused British and Nigerian customs. "Even though we were already married, I went in with my groomsmen and formally asked Mimi’s family for their permission to marry her," Maro recalls. Mimi adds with a smile, "Straight after the [May] wedding, Maro had to go to Australia, so we’ve only really been experiencing married life at home in London for the past three or four months. It’s been lovely."
Yet, 2025 was a year of contrasts for Maro Itoje. Professionally, he reached the pinnacle of rugby, leading the Lions to their first series win in Australia in 12 years—a feat that electrified fans and cemented his status as one of the sport’s great captains. Off the pitch, however, he faced profound loss. In December, Maro’s mother, Florence, passed away, a tragedy that cast a shadow over his many triumphs. "Despite [2025] being one of the best years of my life, 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," Maro wrote in a heartfelt social media post. "She was my confidant, gist partner, friend, advisor, teacher and my comfort... She was the glue and heartbeat of our family and she leaves a hole that will never be filled."
The loss deeply affected Maro, prompting him to travel to Nigeria for Florence’s funeral and miss both the Six Nations launch event and the start of England’s training camp. England coach Steve Borthwick, recognizing the emotional and physical toll, made the decision to place Maro on the bench for England’s opening Six Nations match against Wales on February 7, 2026. "Maro and his family have been dealing with an incredible loss, the sad loss of his mum [Florence]," Borthwick explained. "We all feel for him in that regard, he travelled to Nigeria and back and has had a big load from a travel perspective. So I’ve made the decision that he’s going to be on the bench this week." The rugby community rallied around Maro, with teammates and public figures offering condolences and support. England captain Jamie George, who himself lost his mother to cancer just before his own appointment, responded with heartfelt emojis, while Manu Vunipola and others sent prayers and messages of comfort.
As the Six Nations tournament kicks off, anticipation is high—not just for the rugby on display, but for the emotional return of Maro Itoje to the Twickenham pitch. Borthwick expects the crowd to give him an emotional reception: "I’m sure he’s going to have incredible impact off the bench and I’m sure that the crowd at Allianz Stadium will give him the roar he deserves when he comes to the touchline ready to come on the pitch and show just how much they care about him and his family." Maro’s resilience and leadership remain undiminished, even as he navigates personal grief and professional responsibility.
Mimi Itoje, meanwhile, has become an integral part of Maro’s journey, both on and off the field. A successful model, chartered forensic accountant, and painter—her works were featured at the Royal College of Art—Mimi brings her own achievements and passions to the partnership. The couple’s shared love of art is evident; Maro, inspired by his Nigerian heritage, co-founded the Akoje Gallery in 2023 to promote African, Caribbean, and diaspora artists. Their collection of African art is a source of joy and connection, with Maro recalling, "When we eventually went [to the art market in Nigeria], I was taken aback by the colour, the vibrancy and dynamism of the art. I felt a connection to it in my soul and started a yearly pilgrimage to Nigeria to pick up more. Collecting is something that Mimi and I love doing together."
Jewellery is another thread that ties Maro’s heritage to his present. In January 2026, he was named the first male ambassador for Astrea London, a luxury lab-grown diamond brand, coinciding with the launch of its debut men’s collection. Maro, who often wears pieces reflecting his Nigerian roots, now sports a teardrop-shaped Astrea London diamond earring with the initials "MI," designed by Mimi. "I’m comfortable wearing jewellery as a man," Maro says with a grin, to which Mimi responds, "It looks great on him." The symbolism is unmistakable—strength, sophistication, and a deep sense of identity.
Beyond personal milestones, Maro’s influence extends to the highest echelons of British society. In 2022, he met King Charles III at Buckingham Palace alongside artist Oluwole Omofemi, and his Akoje Residency program, in partnership with The King’s Foundation, offers emerging artists the chance to live and work at Dumfries House. The Prince and Princess of Wales, patrons of the Welsh Rugby Union and Rugby Football Union, are regular fixtures at major matches. "They’re both big supporters and so enthusiastic about the sport. Kate has mentioned that their three children all play, too," Maro shares, highlighting the sport’s reach and his own role as an ambassador.
For Mimi, rugby was an unfamiliar world before meeting Maro, but she’s embraced it wholeheartedly. Last summer, she took a month off to support Maro and the Lions in Australia, immersing herself in the camaraderie of the players’ partners and the passionate fanbase. "It was amazing seeing how many Brits had flown out, and the streets were filled with Lions fans. I was very nervous about the second Test, but when we won, it was the best feeling," she recalls. Now, she attends as many games as she can, especially those in London or on the international stage.
Looking ahead, the Itojes face a packed schedule: the Six Nations, Saracens’ European campaign, and ongoing commitments to art, fashion, and philanthropy. "There’s always a lot going on," Maro admits, "but we always try to find time to hang out together." As England prepares to take on Wales, all eyes will be on Maro—waiting for his moment off the bench, and for the latest chapter in a remarkable sporting and personal journey still very much in progress.