Kevin Sinfield has vowed to keep aiding people affected by motor neurone disease following his knighthood in the king’s birthday honours. The 45-year-old former rugby league star was recognised for his extensive charity work and becomes only the second player from the sport to receive the title, after Billy Boston last year. Sinfield has collected over £11 million for MND charities, helping patients and backing research for a cure. His efforts began after his former Leeds Rhinos teammate Rob Burrow was diagnosed in 2019. Burrow passed away in summer 2024. Starting with seven marathons in seven days in 2020, Sinfield has completed tough running events annually. He recently revealed his seventh and last 7 in 7 challenge, involving seven ultra-marathons over seven days, now set to start on 27 September as Sir Kevin. “I am deeply honoured and grateful to receive this award on behalf of the rugby and MND communities,” he said. “I am particularly proud to follow in the footsteps of the great Sir Billy Boston.” Sinfield noted his career was fulfilling but the past seven years brought new purpose through supporting the MND community. A dedicated centre named after Burrow opened in Leeds last year, yet he stressed more work remains. “We have to continue the fight for the 5,000 people living with MND in the UK today,” he added. Burrow’s wife Lindsey welcomed the honour, praising Sinfield’s dedication to awareness and research.
