Sir Kevin Sinfield is set to carry the Super League Grand Final match ball on what will be his seventh and final ultra‑marathon challenge, before presenting it at the climactic showdown at Old Trafford on 3 October, broadcast live on Sky Sports. The decorated former Leeds Rhinos and England captain is gearing up for yet another grueling running endeavour, this time aimed at boosting awareness and raising vital funds for the motor neurone disease (MND) community across the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland. Since launching his inaugural charitable run in 2020, Sinfield and his dedicated team have amassed more than £11 million for MND charities.
This year’s itinerary sees him tackling an ultra‑marathon each day for a full week, starting at the home of world‑club champions Hull KR on Sunday, 27 September. From there he will travel to the stadiums of all twelve English Super League clubs, culminating in a final leg that brings him to Old Trafford ahead of the Grand Final on Saturday, 3 October. The symbolism of this final leg is profound. Sinfield, who guided Leeds to seven Grand Final triumphs at the iconic Theatre of Dreams, will hand over the match ball to the new generation of players who will battle for the championship.
For him, the journey is a chance to bring his marathon back to the heart of the rugby league community and to revisit venues where his dear friend Rob Burrow once dazzled opponents. Old Trafford holds particular resonance because it was the stage where Burrow scored what many consider the greatest Grand Final try ever – a solo effort against St Helens in 2011. "It feels right to bring the ball back home to the rugby league family.
This is where Rob’s story began," Sinfield told Sky Sports. "Running through venues where he terrorised defenders is incredibly special, and ending at the Theatre of Dreams makes it all the more meaningful." Sinfield praised the support the sport has shown over the years, recalling the massive turn‑out for the Rugby League World Cup final at Old Trafford in 2022, even though England were not playing.
"The love for Rob, the support for the MND cause, and the solidarity of the rugby league community shine through every time," he said. "I’m proud of how the game rallies around its own, and I know this night will be unforgettable." Rhodri Jones, the commercial managing director of the Rugby League and interim chief executive of the RFL, added his admiration: "Sir Kevin is one of the most iconic figures in Super League history. He is synonymous with Grand Final night, and his relentless running challenges in support of Rob Burrow and the MND community inspire us all.
As a competition, we are thrilled that he will deliver the ball to the centre of Old Trafford for the biggest 80‑minute contest of the season, when the Betfred Super League champions are crowned. The entire sport wishes Sir Kevin and his crew the very best for what promises to be another demanding seven‑day trek." This year’s challenge will benefit six charities: the MND Association, Leeds Hospitals Charity, My Name5 Doddie Foundation, Darby Rimmer Foundation, MND Scotland and the Irish MND Association.
Fans can contribute via the dedicated fundraising page linked on the official website. The Super League play‑offs kick off on Friday, 18 September, with Wakefield Trinity hosting Leigh Leopards at 8 pm on Sky Sports. The following day sees Warrington Wolves take on Hull KR at 5:30 pm. Semi‑finals follow on 25 September (Leeds Rhinos versus a yet‑to‑be‑decided opponent) and 26 September (Wigan Warriors versus a TBD side), both broadcast live.
The play‑offs run straight through to the Grand Final at Old Trafford on 3 October, where the match ball, freshly carried by Sir Kevin after his week‑long odyssey, will be presented to the teams as they vie for the ultimate prize. Sinfield’s final marathon not only underscores his personal dedication to a cause close to his heart but also serves as a rallying point for the entire rugby league community. By traversing every English Super League venue, he reminds fans and players alike of the sport’s deep roots and its capacity to unite for charitable good.
The anticipation builds as each day of the run brings him closer to the historic stadium, where the ball will be handed over in a ceremony that promises to blend sport, tribute, and philanthropy into a single, unforgettable moment. Supporters are encouraged to watch the live coverage, follow Sinfield’s progress on social media, and donate to the charities benefiting from his effort. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of the game or a newcomer drawn by the inspirational story, Sir Kevin’s final challenge offers a powerful reminder of how sport can drive positive change and honor the legacy of a true rugby league legend.