**Breaking News: Wigan Rugby League Legend Ricky Bibey Dies on Holiday Aged 40**
Former rugby league star Ricky Bibey has tragically passed away at the age of 40 while on holiday in Florence, Italy. His death has sent shockwaves through the rugby community, with tributes pouring in from former clubs and fans alike.([ITVX][1], [Express.co.uk][2])
### A Career Spanning Top Clubs
Born in Leigh, Bibey began his professional rugby league career with Wigan Warriors in 2001. He went on to play for several notable clubs, including St Helens, Leigh Centurions, Oldham, and Wakefield Trinity. During his career, he won the Challenge Cup twice—first with Wigan in 2002 and again with St Helens in 2004. Known for his formidable presence on the field, Bibey was a prop-forward who never shied away from a challenge. His former teammate at Leigh Centurions, Ste Maden, described him as a player who “feared no-one on a rugby pitch” and always “did the hard yards when you needed them.” Maden added that Bibey “left it all on the pitch,” making him a popular figure among teammates .([Love Rugby League][3], [BBC][4], [BBC][5], [BBC][6])
### Tragic Discovery in Florence
Bibey was found dead in his hotel room at the four-star Hotel Continentale in central Florence on Saturday, July 16, 2022. Hotel staff alerted the authorities after discovering the 40-year-old alongside a seriously injured 43-year-old woman, believed to be his partner. The woman was promptly taken to Careggi Hospital for treatment. While the exact circumstances surrounding Bibey’s death remain under investigation, the British Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office confirmed they were in contact with Italian police .([BBC][4], [BBC][7], [Manchester Evening News][8])
### Tributes from the Rugby Community
The rugby league community has been quick to honor Bibey’s memory. Wigan Warriors expressed their sorrow, stating, “Wigan Warriors are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former prop forward, Ricky Bibey. Between 2001-2003, Ricky played 42 games for Wigan and was part of the 2002 Challenge Cup winning squad. We send our condolences to Ricky’s family and friends at this sad time.” Similarly, St Helens RFC, where Bibey played in 2004, paid tribute, saying, “Ricky Bibey, part of our 2004 squad and member of the Challenge Cup winning side against Wigan has died suddenly whilst on holiday. Our thoughts and condolences go out to all his family and friends.” Leigh Centurions also mourned his passing, describing him as a “popular former prop forward” and extending their “sincere condolences to his family and friends at this time” .([BBC][7], [ITVX][1], [Express.co.uk][2])
### Life After Rugby
After retiring from professional rugby in 2012 due to an Achilles tendon injury, Bibey transitioned to a career in real estate and property development. Despite stepping away from the sport, he remained a beloved figure in the rugby league community, known for his dedication and camaraderie.([ITVX][1])
### A Legacy Remembered
Ricky Bibey’s untimely death has left a void in the rugby league world. His contributions to the sport, both on and off the field, have left an indelible mark. As investigations into the circumstances of his death continue, the rugby community stands united in honoring his memory and offering support to his family during this difficult time.
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