Kevin Sinfield, the rugby league legend and Motor Neurone Disease fundraiser, has been officially awarded a knighthood in the King's Birthday Honours. The announcement, first revealed by The Mirror, recognises his extraordinary efforts in memory of his late friend and Leeds Rhinos teammate Rob Burrow, who died from MND at age 41 two years ago.
Lindsey Burrow's Tribute
Rob's wife, Lindsey Burrow, expressed her delight, saying: "On behalf of the whole Burrow family, I would like to congratulate Kevin on his knighthood. We are all delighted for him, and I cannot think of a more deserving recipient. Kevin did so much for Rob but also the whole MND community, raising awareness and funds to support families and aid research." She added: "As Rob used to say, everyone should have a friend like Kevin, and so many people will be pleased to see him get this recognition."
Sinfield's Reaction
A proud Kevin Sinfield said: "I am deeply honoured and grateful to receive this award on behalf of the Rugby and MND communities. Since I first played rugby when I was seven, Rugby League has given me so much. I am particularly proud to follow in the footsteps of the great Sir Billy Boston with Rugby League's second ever knighthood in over 130 years." He also highlighted the bonds formed through rugby: "That is the special thing about rugby; the teammates you make on the pitch are by your side off the field long after you hang up your boots."
Fundraising Achievements
Sinfield, 45, has raised over £11 million for MND charities through several gruelling ultra-marathons. His efforts began after Rob Burrow was diagnosed with MND in 2019. In 2023, he famously carried Rob over the finish line at the Leeds Marathon. Sinfield was previously awarded an MBE in 2014 for his playing career, an OBE in 2021 for MND fundraising, and a CBE in 2024 alongside Rob Burrow.
Final Challenge Announced
Sinfield has announced his final "7 in 7" challenge, titled "The Grand Finale," where he will run between Hull and Manchester, visiting all 12 English Super League grounds. Starting on September 27, he will run an ultra marathon each day, finishing ahead of the Super League Grand Final at Old Trafford in front of 70,000 fans.
Leeds Rhinos Tribute
Leeds Rhinos Chief Executive Jamie Jones-Buchanan said: "On behalf of everyone associated with Leeds Rhinos, I send my wholehearted congratulations to Kevin on this thoroughly deserved award. He was the cultural architect of a special generation of players, embodying everything great about Rugby League: humbleness, determination, and authenticity."
