Former Leeds Rhinos captain Kevin Sinfield has been granted a knighthood in the King's Birthday Honours list, a significant recognition of his remarkable contributions both on and off the rugby pitch. Sinfield, 45, becomes only the second figure from the sport of rugby league to receive this prestigious honour, following in the footsteps of Billy Boston.
His knighthood acknowledges a distinguished playing career, which saw him lead Leeds to seven Super League titles between 2004 and 2015. However, it is his extraordinary fundraising efforts for Motor Neurone Disease (MND) research and support that have captured the nation's heart. Inspired by his close friend and former teammate Rob Burrow, who tragically passed away earlier this year after a five-year battle with MND, Sinfield has raised more than £11 million through a series of gruelling challenges.
Alongside Sinfield's knighthood, six members of England's triumphant Euro 2022 Lionesses squad have been appointed MBEs. Michelle Agyemang, Jess Carter, Hannah Hampton, Lauren James, Chloe Kelly, and Alessia Russo have all been recognised for their pivotal roles in the historic victory. This follows a previous round of honours in the New Year list for five of their teammates, further cementing the squad's legacy and impact on women's football.
The honours list also features other prominent sporting figures. Rugby league legend Neil Fox has seen his MBE upgraded to a CBE, while two-time Ryder Cup-winning captain Luke Donald and former snooker world champion Shaun Murphy have both received OBEs. Former England rugby union captain Emily Scarratt, who retired last year after a second Women's Rugby World Cup win, was also awarded an OBE. Former Scotland international Lou Macari received an MBE for his services to football and homeless people in Stoke-on-Trent, alongside Gary Street, who coached the England women's rugby union team to World Cup glory in 2014.
Sinfield expressed his gratitude, stating that his playing career was a dream, but the last seven years have provided immense inspiration. He highlighted the MND community as 'the very best of us' and spoke of his privilege in supporting them and elevating their battle to a national stage. His knighthood, he added, will allow him to continue raising awareness, particularly with his seventh and final annual fundraising challenge scheduled for September.
Lindsey Burrow, Rob's widow, congratulated Sinfield, calling him a 'most deserving recipient' and emphasising his profound impact on her husband and the wider MND community. She echoed Rob's sentiment that 'everyone should have a friend like Kevin,' reflecting the deep admiration and respect held for Sinfield's unwavering dedication.