Sir Kevin Sinfield is set to take charge of the Super League Grand Final match ball for what will be his seventh and final fundraising challenge, a symbolic gesture that will see him deliver the ball at the venue where many of his most celebrated moments unfolded. The ceremony will take place at Old Trafford on October 3, broadcast live on Sky Sports. The former Leeds Rhinos and England captain is gearing up for yet another demanding ultra‑marathon, a venture designed to heighten awareness and generate financial support for the motor neurone disease (MND) community across both the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland. Since launching his inaugural annual challenge in 2020, Sinfield and his dedicated team have raised in excess of £11 million for MND charities, and this latest effort will see him complete a separate ultra‑marathon each day for a full week.
The itinerary begins at the home ground of the world‑club champions Hull Kingston Rovers on Sunday, 27 September. From there, Sinfield will travel to each of the twelve English Super League clubs, stopping at every stadium along the way. The final leg of the journey culminates at Old Trafford, where he will hand over the match ball just before the Grand Final on Saturday, 3 October.
For Sinfield, the occasion holds deep personal significance. He guided Leeds to seven Grand Final triumphs at the iconic "Theatre of Dreams," and now he will present the ball to the current generation of players who will battle for the title. The event also serves as a heartfelt tribute to his close friend Rob Burrow, whose own legendary career is intertwined with many of the venues Sinfield will visit.
Old Trafford, in particular, is a poignant location because it was the stage for Burrow’s arguably greatest Grand Final try in 2011 against St Helens. "It feels right to bring the ball back to the rugby league community where it all began for Rob," Sinfield told Sky Sports. "Visiting the grounds where he terrorised opponents is especially meaningful, and finishing at Old Trafford feels like the perfect conclusion." Sinfield praised the support the sport has shown over the years, recalling the massive turnout at the Rugby League World Cup final held at Old Trafford in 2022, even though England were not playing.
"The love for Rob, the support for the MND community, and the unity of rugby league fans will shine through on Grand Final night," he said. "I’m incredibly proud of how the game has rallied around its own, and I expect a truly special evening." Rhodri Jones, the commercial managing director of the Rugby League (RL) and interim chief executive of the Rugby Football League (RFL), echoed these sentiments.
"Sir Kevin is one of the most iconic figures in Super League history. His name is synonymous with Grand Final night, and his relentless running challenges in support of Rob Burrow and the MND community have inspired countless people.
As a competition, we’re delighted that he will now bring the ball to the centre stage at Old Trafford, where the season’s biggest 80‑minute showdown will decide the Betfred Super League champions." Jones added that the sport wishes Sinfield and his support crew the best of luck for what promises to be another grueling seven‑day stretch. Six charities will benefit from this year’s fundraising drive: the MND Association, Leeds Hospitals Charity, My Name5 Doddie Foundation, Darby Rimmer Foundation, MND Scotland, and the Irish MND Association. A dedicated fundraising page has been set up for supporters to contribute.
The Super League play‑offs kick off on Friday, 18 September, with Wakefield Trinity facing Leigh Leopards at 8 p.m. on Sky Sports. The following day sees Warrington Wolves take on Hull KR at 5:30 p.m.
The semi‑finals are scheduled for Friday, 25 September (Leeds Rhinos versus a yet‑to‑be‑determined opponent) at 8 p.m., and Saturday, 26 September (Wigan Warriors versus a TBD opponent) at 5:30 p.m., both broadcast live on Sky Sports. The play‑off series will run continuously through to the Grand Final at Old Trafford on 3 October, marking the climax of the season.
Sinfield’s final ultra‑marathon challenge not only underscores his personal commitment to the cause but also highlights the broader rugby league community’s dedication to supporting those affected by MND. By weaving together his own storied legacy, the memory of Rob Burrow, and the collective effort of fans and charities, the event promises to be a powerful testament to solidarity, perseverance, and the enduring spirit of the sport.