Sir Kevin Sinfield is set to take on his seventh and final ball‑bearing assignment ahead of the Super League Grand Final, a role that carries deep personal significance. On October 3, live on Sky Sports from Old Trafford, the former Leeds Rhinos and England captain will present the iconic match ball at the climax of the season, a moment that echoes many of his most celebrated achievements on the sport's biggest stage. Beyond the ceremonial duties, Sinfield is gearing up for yet another grueling ultra‑marathon, this time aimed at raising awareness and vital funds for the motor neurone disease (MND) community across the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland.
Since launching his first fundraising run in 2020, Sinfield and his dedicated team have amassed more than £11 million for MND charities, and this latest challenge will push his limits even further. The new endeavour will see Sinfield complete an ultra‑marathon each day for seven consecutive days, beginning at the home of the world‑club champions Hull Kingston Rovers on Sunday, September 27. From there, he will travel to the stadiums of all twelve English Super League clubs, culminating in a final run at Old Trafford on Saturday, October 3, just before the Grand Final. The itinerary not only maps a physical journey across the league’s heartland but also serves as a symbolic pilgrimage through venues that have defined his career and the legacy of his close friend, former Leeds star Rob Burrow.
Sinfield’s connection to Old Trafford runs deep. It was there, in 2011, that Burrow produced what many consider the greatest Grand Final try in Super League history, a moment that has become part of the sport’s folklore. "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 special, and finishing at the Theatre of Dreams feels like the perfect ending to this chapter." He reflected on the emotional weight of the occasion, recalling the massive support the sport showed during 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 community, and the unity of rugby league will shine through on that night," Sinfield said. "I’m incredibly proud of how the game has rallied together to look after its own, and I expect a truly memorable Grand Final." Rhodri Jones, the commercial managing director of the Rugby League and interim chief executive of the RFL, praised Sinfield’s contributions, stating, "Sir Kevin is one of the most iconic names in Super League history. He is synonymous with Grand Final night, and his remarkable endurance challenges in support of his great friend Rob Burrow have inspired us all. As a competition, we are delighted he will now bring the ball to centre stage at Old Trafford for the biggest 80 minutes of the season, when the latest Betfred Super League champions are crowned.
The whole sport wishes Sir Kevin and his team the very best for what promises to be another arduous seven‑day challenge." The fundraising aspect of the run will benefit six charities dedicated to MND research and patient support: the MND Association, Leeds Hospitals Charity, My Name5 Doddie Foundation, Darby Rimmer Foundation, MND Scotland, and the Irish MND Association. Supporters can contribute via the dedicated fundraising page linked to the challenge. In addition to the marathon, the Super League play‑offs will be in full swing, offering fans a packed schedule of high‑stakes matches. The opening round kicks off on Friday, September 18, 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. The semi‑finals are slated for Friday, September 25 (Leeds Rhinos versus a TBD opponent) and Saturday, September 26 (Wigan Warriors versus a TBD opponent), both broadcast live on Sky Sports.
The play‑offs will culminate in the Grand Final at Old Trafford on October 3, where Sinfield will hand over the match ball to the competing squads, marking the end of his seven‑day running saga and the beginning of the season’s most coveted trophy showdown. Through his relentless dedication, Sir Kevin Sinfield continues to blend athletic excellence with charitable compassion, turning each stride into a beacon of hope for those affected by MND. His final ball‑handing ceremony at Old Trafford not only celebrates his own storied career but also honors the enduring spirit of rugby league and the community that rallies behind its heroes.