The Prince of Wales has publicly applauded rugby legend Kevin Sinfield as his monumental week of fundraising for motor neurone disease (MND) draws to a close. In a personal social media message, Prince William sent his "huge congratulations" for the "incredible" physical feat.
A Royal Tribute to an Inspirational Effort
Posting on X, the future king, 43, commended Sinfield's unwavering dedication to his late friend and former Leeds Rhinos teammate, Rob Burrow, and all those living with MND. William described Sinfield's commitment as "truly inspiring," thanking him for highlighting the urgent need for research and support. The prince also added a light-hearted, caring note, jokingly advising the athlete to "look after those knees!"
Sinfield's latest endeavour, the '7 in 7: Together' challenge, is his sixth annual fundraising event for the MND community. He began the series of seven ultramarathons in seven days on Monday, aiming to finish at AMT Headingley Stadium in Leeds on December 7. The challenge's name honours Burrow's old shirt number, seven.
Legacy of Friendship and Millions Raised
The campaign has already been a phenomenal success. Sinfield surpassed his target of £777,777 for the week and has now raised a staggering cumulative total of more than £10 million for MND causes since Burrow's diagnosis in 2019. This funding supports vital research into the incurable disease and provides assistance for affected families.
The bond between Sinfield and Burrow captured the nation's heart. In a now-iconic moment, Sinfield carried his friend across the finish line at the 2023 Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon. In January 2024, Prince William awarded both men CBEs at Headingley Stadium. Tragically, Burrow died five months later at the age of 41, after a four-and-a-half-year battle with MND.
A Promise Kept and a Centre Opened
The prince's connection to the cause has remained strong. He recently fulfilled a promise to open the Rob Burrow Centre for Motor Neurone Disease, visiting the facility last month. During the opening, he was joined by Sinfield, Burrow's widow Lindsey, and their three children, Macy, Maya, and Jackson.
Kevin Sinfield, now a coach with the England rugby union team, continues to use his platform to drive change and offer hope. His extraordinary physical endurance, coupled with the powerful royal endorsement, ensures the fight against MND remains firmly in the public eye, honouring Rob Burrow's lasting legacy.
