Rob Burrow would be 'laughing but proud' about knighthood - Sinfield - BBC News
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Rob Burrow would be proud of knighthood - Sinfield
Image source: PA Media
Image caption: Sir Kevin Sinfield is made a knight bachelor by the Prince of Wales at Windsor Castle
Published: 7 October 2026, 14:06 BST
Updated: 2 hours ago
Sir Kevin Sinfield has shared his joy at receiving a knighthood, stating that his late friend Rob Burrow would be "laughing" but "enormously proud" to see him honored.
At an investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle, Sir Kevin, a former England rugby league captain and MND campaigner, was one of 60 individuals to receive honors from the Prince of Wales.
He was awarded a knighthood for his services to the MND community, as well as for his contributions to league and union rugby.
Expressing his humility, Sir Kevin said, "I'm massively humbled by the whole experience and very proud to accept it on behalf of the MND community and their families."
The 46-year-old highlighted the Prince of Wales' support for their campaign, recalling how the prince, who presented Sir Kevin and Burrow with their CBEs at Headingley Stadium in 2024, has been "fantastically supportive."
William, along with Princess Catherine, surprised Sir Kevin during his 7 in 7: The Grand Finale challenge last week, where he completed seven ultra-marathons in seven days, inspired by Burrow's legacy.
Sir Kevin remarked, "I think [the Prince] champions pulling communities together, and I've seen how the MND community have come together on the back of Rob's diagnosis and several other high-profile sportspeople over the last six or seven years."
When asked how Burrow would react to his knighthood, Sir Kevin replied, "I think he'd be laughing. I think he'd be enormously proud of the support behind a campaign that he started, and we continue in his name."
He further emphasized the impact of the prince and princess's support, saying, "On behalf of all the MND families, Rob would just be delighted at how we've pulled together."
Looking ahead, Sir Kevin expressed his desire to plan a run in Australia and New Zealand next year and foster collaboration among nations working towards a cure and better care for MND families.
The reaction from the MND community to his knighthood has been positive, with Sir Kevin feeling fortunate to connect with families facing challenging circumstances and share their stories.
Reflecting on his new title, "Sir Kevin," he humorously noted, "I don't think I ever will [get used to it]. It's really nice, but every time I hear that, I go straight back to why we started, and it was a run for a mate, with some mates, and that will never change."