Sir Kevin Sinfield has officially been awarded a knighthood, with the family of his late friend Rob Burrow leading the tributes and praising the rugby legend’s unwavering loyalty and dedication to the Motor Neurone Disease community.
The 45-year-old former Leeds Rhinos captain has been honoured in the King’s Birthday Honours in recognition of his extraordinary fundraising efforts inspired by his friendship with Rob Burrow, who died in 2024 at the age of 41 after battling Motor Neurone Disease.
Over the past seven years, Kevin has completed a series of gruelling endurance challenges and helped raise more than £11 million for MND charities, while also shining a spotlight on families affected by the devastating illness.
Rob’s wife Lindsey Burrow shared an emotional message on behalf of the family, 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 can not think of a more deserving recipient.”
She added: “Kevin did so much for Rob but also the whole MND community with raising awareness and funds to support families and aid research.”
Lindsey continued: “I know he has said he is dedicated to supporting the MND community for however long it takes to find a cure and that means so much to so many people to have a champion like Kevin in their corner.”
Recalling her husband’s words, she said: “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.”
Following the announcement, Kevin said he was “deeply honoured and grateful” to receive the award on behalf of both the rugby and MND communities.
He said: “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 of the sport.”
Reflecting on his lifelong friendships, Kevin added: “The team-mates you make on the pitch are by your side off the field long after you hang up your boots.”
“My playing career was everything I could ever have dreamed of as a young man but the last seven years have given me so much inspiration.”
Speaking about his late friend, he said: “I continue to be inspired by the courage that Rob Burrow showed in his battle with the disease and he is never far from my thoughts.”
“We have raised so much awareness and funds to support families and aid research but more needs to be done.”
Kevin also vowed to continue campaigning for those affected by MND and confirmed he will take part in his seventh and final “7 in 7” challenge later this year.
One of the most memorable moments of their friendship came in 2023, when Kevin carried Rob across the finish line of the Leeds Marathon, creating an image that touched millions across Britain.
Leeds Rhinos chief executive Jamie Jones-Buchanan hailed the honour as thoroughly deserved, describing Kevin as “a great friend” and saying he was proud to see him recognised by the nation.
