BRITISH rugby league is still celebrating after Kevin Sinfield was announced as its second knight.
Sinfield, 45, was named as a Knight, Commander of the Order of the British Empire (KBE) during the King’s birthday honours, adding him to a list that so far only includes Wigan wing great Billy Boston.
Another all time great, Neil Fox, was awarded a CBE and current Wigan chairman Chris Brooks was given a MBE.
Sinfield has become a national figure in the UK since his retirement as a player a decade ago for his fundraising efforts for Motor Neurone Disease after his friend and team-mate Rob Burrow was diagnosed with the disease in 2019.
“On behalf of the Rugby Football League and the sport of rugby league, it is a privilege to congratulate Sir Kevin Sinfield on his knighthood,” said Nigel Wood, the chair of the RFL and Rugby League Commercial.
“Rarely has such an honour been so richly deserved – and so widely applauded. I am sure the whole of the rugby league community would agree.
“Sir Kev not only achieved so many feats in our sport, including captaining Leeds Rhinos in one of the greatest eras for any club in our history, but he also earned global acclaim for his truly remarkable efforts when supporting his much-loved friend Rob Burrow and the entire Motor Neurone Disease community.
“No one will forget the numerous arduous running challenges, which tested his mind, body and spirit, that he completed – and continues to undertake – to raise crucial funds and awareness for MND.
“Sir Kev is an inspiration to so many, whether as one of the finest players of his generation, leading Rhinos to seven Super League titles, Challenge Cup and World Club Challenge glory plus captaining England and winning the Golden Boot as the world’s best international, or for those staggering feats of endurance in aid of Rob and MND.
“He has affectionately been known as ‘Sir Kev’ for years by Leeds supporters and it is wonderful for that moniker to be now made official by His Majesty The King.
“After Sir Billy Boston became Rugby League’s first knight last June, ending a long 130 year-wait for the sport, it is encouraging to witness another of our brilliant ambassadors now being bestowed the same honour and recognition.”
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