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 handing it over at the iconic Old Trafford arena on October 3, a ceremony that will be broadcast live on Sky Sports. The former Leeds Rhinos captain and England leader is gearing up for his latest demanding running venture, a campaign designed to raise further awareness and financial support for the motor neurone disease (MND) community across the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland. Since launching his first annual run in 2020, Sinfield and his dedicated team have amassed more than £11 million for MND charities. This year’s effort will see him complete an ultra‑marathon each day for a full week, traversing the home grounds of all twelve English Super League clubs.
The journey begins at the Hull Kingston Rovers stadium – the current world club champions – on Sunday, September 27, and will culminate at Old Trafford just before the Grand Final on Saturday, October 3. The significance of this final leg is deeply personal.
Sinfield, who guided Leeds to seven Grand Final triumphs at the famed "Theatre of Dreams," will now present the match ball to the modern day warriors who will battle for the title. He describes the assignment as a chance to bring the celebration "back home" to the rugby league family and to revisit venues that were central to the career of his close friend, Rob Burrow. Old Trafford holds special meaning because it was the stage for Burrow’s arguably greatest Grand Final try in 2011 against St Helens – a moment that many still regard as the finest try ever seen in a Super League final.
"It feels right to return the ball to the rugby league community," Sinfield told Sky Sports. "Rob started his journey here, and to visit the grounds where he terrified opponents is incredibly special. Finishing at Old Trafford, where he scored that legendary try, makes it a perfect ending." He went on to reflect on the broader support the sport has shown. "We were at Old Trafford for the Rugby League World Cup final in 2022, and even though England weren’t in the match, the atmosphere was electric.
The love for Rob, the backing for the MND cause, and the solidarity of the rugby league family will shine through on Grand Final night. I’m immensely proud of how the sport rallies around its own, and I know it will be a night to remember." Rhodri Jones, the commercial managing director of the Rugby League (RL) and interim chief executive of the RFL, echoed these sentiments: "Sir Kevin is one of the most iconic figures in Super League history. He is synonymous with Grand Final night, and his extraordinary running challenges in support of his dear friend Rob Burrow and the MND community have inspired us all. As a competition, we are thrilled that he will now bring the ball onto the centre stage at Old Trafford for the biggest 80‑minute showdown of the season, when the latest Betfred Super League champions are crowned.
The entire rugby league world wishes Sir Kevin and his team the very best for what promises to be another grueling seven‑day undertaking." This year’s challenge supports six charitable organisations: the MND Association, Leeds Hospitals Charity, My Name5 Doddie Foundation, Darby Rimmer Foundation, MND Scotland, and the Irish MND Association. Fans can contribute by visiting the official fundraising page, which remains open for donations. The Super League play‑offs kick off on Friday, September 18, with Wakefield Trinity taking on Leigh Leopards at 8 p.m. on Sky Sports.
The following day sees Warrington Wolves face Hull KR at 5:30 p.m. The semi‑finals are scheduled for Friday, September 25 (Leeds Rhinos versus a yet‑to‑be‑determined opponent) and Saturday, September 26 (Wigan Warriors versus a TBD opponent), both broadcast live on Sky Sports. The culmination of the season – the Grand Final – will be staged at Old Trafford on October 3, where Sinfield will hand the ball to the competing teams, symbolising both the sport’s heritage and its commitment to charitable causes. Throughout the week‑long trek, Sinfield will be accompanied by a support crew, medical staff, and volunteers, all working to ensure his safety while he covers roughly 30 miles each day.
The route is designed to showcase the diverse fan bases of each club, allowing local supporters to witness the runner’s progress and contribute to the fundraising momentum. Social media updates, live streams, and community events are planned at each venue to maximise engagement and encourage donations. Beyond the physical feat, Sinfield’s endeavour highlights the powerful link between sport and philanthropy. By leveraging his high‑profile status and the emotional connection fans have with rugby league legends like Rob Burrow, the campaign not only raises vital funds for research and patient support but also keeps the conversation about MND in the public eye.
The cumulative impact of these annual challenges has already funded research projects, provided equipment for patients, and supported families coping with the disease. As the final day approaches, anticipation builds among players, coaches, and supporters alike.
The match ball, having traveled across the country and touched the hearts of countless fans, will arrive at Old Trafford as a tangible symbol of perseverance, friendship, and community spirit. Sir Kevin Sinfield’s seventh and final ultra‑marathon will thus close a remarkable chapter in rugby league history, leaving a lasting legacy for both the sport and the MND cause.