Sir Kevin Sinfield is set to take charge of the Super League Grand Final match ball for what will be his seventh and final personal challenge, a symbolic gesture that will see him hand the ball over at the iconic Old Trafford venue on October 3, with the ceremony broadcast live on Sky Sports. The former Leeds Rhinos and England captain is once again preparing for a demanding ultra‑marathon series, this time aimed at raising further awareness and financial support for the motor neurone disease (MND) community across both the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland. Since launching his first annual run in 2020, Sinfield and his dedicated team have already generated more than £11 million for MND charities, and this latest effort will see him complete a separate ultra‑marathon each day for an entire 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 the stadiums of all twelve English Super League clubs, covering a distance that tests both his physical stamina and his resolve. The final leg of the journey will culminate at Old Trafford, the famed "Theatre of Dreams," where the Grand Final will be staged on Saturday, 3 October. For Sinfield, the act of presenting the match ball carries deep personal resonance.
He guided Leeds to seven Grand Final victories at that very stadium, and now he will hand the ball to the current generation of players who will battle for the title. This final run is also a heartfelt tribute to his close friend Rob Burrow, whose own career was marked by spectacular performances at many of the venues Sinfield will visit. Old Trafford holds particular significance because it was the setting for Burrow's arguably greatest Grand Final try in 2011 against St Helens, a moment that many fans still celebrate as the pinnacle of Super League drama. "It feels right to bring the ball back home to the rugby league community," Sinfield told Sky Sports.
"This is where Rob's story began, and to visit the grounds where he terrified opponents is incredibly special. Finishing at Old Trafford feels like the perfect ending." He added that the support he has received over the past six years has been "awesome" and that he looks forward to experiencing the familiar atmosphere once more.
Sinfield reflected on the broader rugby league family, recalling the massive turnout at Old Trafford for the Rugby League World Cup final in 2022, even though England were not playing. "The love for Rob, the support for the MND community, and the unity of the sport will shine through on Grand Final night," he said. "I am immensely proud of how rugby league continues to look after its own, and I expect a truly special evening." Rhodri Jones, the commercial managing director of the Rugby League and interim chief executive of the RFL, praised Sinfield's contribution: "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 his dear friend Rob Burrow and the MND community have inspired us all. As a competition, we are delighted that he will now bring the ball to centre stage at Old Trafford for the decisive 80‑minute showdown that crowns the Betfred Super League champions." The challenge will benefit six charitable organisations: the MND Association, Leeds Hospitals Charity, My Name5 Doddie Foundation, Darby Rimmer Foundation, MND Scotland, and the Irish MND Association. Donations can be made through the dedicated fundraising page linked to the campaign.
The Super League play‑offs kick off on Friday, 18 September, with Wakefield Trinity taking on Leigh Leopards at 8 pm on Sky Sports. The following day sees Warrington Wolves face Hull KR at 5:30 pm. Semi‑Final 1 is scheduled for Friday, 25 September, with Leeds Rhinos versus a yet‑to‑be‑determined opponent at 8 pm, and Semi‑Final 2 follows on Saturday, 26 September, featuring Wigan Warriors against another TBC side at 5:30 pm, both matches also on Sky Sports.
These fixtures lead up to the Grand Final at Old Trafford on 3 October, where the culmination of the season’s drama will unfold. Sir Kevin Sinfield’s involvement adds a poignant layer to the event, linking the sport’s storied past with its present and future, while continuing to champion the cause that has defined his post‑playing career. The combination of high‑stakes rugby league action and a charitable mission underscores the unique spirit of the Super League community, promising a memorable night for fans, players, and supporters of the MND cause alike.