Former England rugby league captain Kevin Sinfield is set to receive a knighthood in the upcoming King's Birthday Honours list, following his extensive fundraising for motor neurone disease (MND) charities, according to reports.
The 45-year-old former Leeds Rhinos star has raised more than £11 million for MND charities in honor of his late friend and teammate, Rob Burrow.
>>> Kevin Sinfield Set to Receive Knighthood After Raising Millions for MND
Burrow was diagnosed with the neurological condition in 2019 and passed away in 2024 at age 41.
Public figures have repeatedly called for Sinfield to receive the honor in recent years.
Commons Speaker Lindsay Hoyle described Sinfield as a rugby league legend who deserves the title.
The bond between Sinfield and Burrow drew national attention, notably when Sinfield carried Burrow over the finish line at the 2023 Leeds Marathon after pushing him in a specially adapted wheelchair.
Both men were previously appointed CBEs in the 2023 New Year Honours List, receiving their awards from Prince William at Headingley Stadium.
The opening of the Rob Burrow Centre for Motor Neurone Disease at Seacroft Hospital in Leeds last year established the first purpose-built facility for MND patient care and research.
Prince William visited the facility alongside Sinfield and Burrow's widow, Lindsey.
"This is a world-leading centre that's going to save a lot of lives," said Prince William.
He also told Burrow's children that they should be proud of their father because he was an incredibly brave and special man.
