Sir Kevin Sinfield is set to assume the honour of presenting the match ball at the Super League Grand Final, marking his seventh and final challenge in the series of charitable runs that have become synonymous with his name. The ceremony will take place at Old Trafford on 3 October, broadcast live on Sky Sports, and will see Sinfield hand the ball to the players on a stage that has witnessed many of his most celebrated moments.
The former Leeds Rhinos captain and England legend is once again lacing up for a demanding ultra‑marathon, this time with the explicit aim of raising further awareness and financial support for the motor neurone disease (MND) community across the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland. Since launching his inaugural challenge in 2020, Sinfield and his dedicated team have already generated more than £11 million for a range of MND‑focused charities. This year’s endeavour will see him complete a separate ultra‑marathon each day for a full week, covering a circuit that begins at the home of the world‑club champions Hull KR on Sunday, 27 September, and proceeds to the stadiums of all twelve English Super League clubs before culminating at the iconic Old Trafford venue. The final leg of the journey holds particular emotional weight.
Old Trafford, often referred to as the "Theatre of Dreams," is where Rob Burrow – Sinfield’s long‑time teammate and close friend who was diagnosed with MND in 2019 – scored what many consider the greatest Grand Final try in the sport’s history, crossing the line against St Helens in 2011. For Sinfield, delivering the ball at that same arena feels like bringing his charitable mission full circle, returning the symbol of the game to the very community that has supported him throughout his fundraising odyssey.
"It feels right to bring the ball back to the rugby league family," Sinfield told Sky Sports. "Rob started his journey here, and to hand the ball over at Old Trafford, where he delivered his most iconic try, is incredibly special." The week‑long run will also give Sinfield the chance to revisit venues that were pivotal in Burrow’s career, places where the former Leeds star terrified opponents with his speed and skill. In his own words, "Visiting those grounds where Rob terrorised defences is a privilege, and finishing at Old Trafford makes the whole experience unforgettable." Beyond the personal significance, Sinfield highlighted the broader impact of the event on the rugby league community.
He recalled the massive outpouring of support during the Rugby League World Cup final at Old Trafford in 2022, noting that even though England were not in the final, the atmosphere was electric and the fans’ enthusiasm was palpable. "The love for Rob, the solidarity with the MND cause, and the unity of the rugby league family will shine through on Grand Final night," he said, expressing pride in how the sport consistently rallies around its own. Rhodri Jones, the commercial managing director of the Rugby League (RL) and interim chief executive of the Rugby Football League (RFL), echoed these sentiments, describing Sinfield as "one of the most iconic names in Super League history". Jones added, "His relentless running challenges in support of Rob Burrow and the MND community have become a beacon of inspiration.
We are thrilled that he will now place the ball at the centre of the Grand Final stage, just as the season’s climax unfolds and the Betfred Super League champions are crowned." The charitable aspect of the challenge remains a central focus. Six organisations 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. Each of these charities works to improve the lives of those affected by motor neurone disease, whether through research funding, patient support, or public education.
Supporters can contribute via the dedicated fundraising page, which remains open for donations throughout the week of the run. In addition to the marathon, the Super League play‑offs will be underway, beginning on Friday, 18 September, with a series of high‑stakes matches broadcast live on Sky Sports: - Friday 18 September: Wakefield Trinity vs Leigh Leopards, kickoff 8 pm - Saturday 19 September: Warrington Wolves vs Hull KR, kickoff 5:30 pm - Friday 25 September (Semi‑Final 1): Leeds Rhinos vs TBD, kickoff 8 pm - Saturday 26 September (Semi‑Final 2): Wigan Warriors vs TBD, kickoff 5:30 pm These fixtures lead directly to the Grand Final on 3 October, where Sinfield will hand the ball to the competing squads for what promises to be a thrilling 80‑minute showdown. The combination of elite sport, charitable endeavour, and heartfelt tribute to a beloved former player underscores the unique spirit of this season’s climax.
In summary, Sir Kevin Sinfield’s final ultra‑marathon and his role as match‑ball presenter encapsulate a journey that blends athletic perseverance, community solidarity, and a steadfast commitment to fighting MND. As the rugby league world gathers at Old Trafford, the hope is that the evening will not only crown a new champion but also shine a spotlight on the ongoing battle against motor neurone disease, honoring both the past achievements of legends like Rob Burrow and the future aspirations of those working to eradicate the illness.