Sir Kevin Sinfield set for special Betfred Super League Grand Final duty

Sir Kevin Sinfield will take the Betfred Super League Grand Final match ball on his seventh and final challenge – before delivering it at the scene of so many of his most famous successes. 

The former Leeds Rhinos and England captain is preparing to embark on his latest gruelling running endeavour, raising further awareness and funds to support the MND community across the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland. 

Sinfield, who has helped raise more than £11m for the MND community with his team since his first annual challenge in 2020, will complete an ultra-marathon every day for seven days. 

Starting at the home of World Club champions Hull KR on Sunday September 27th and visiting each of the home grounds of the 12 English Betfred Super League clubs, he will finish at Old Trafford ahead of the Betfred Super League Grand Final on Saturday October 3. 

And now Sinfield, who led Leeds to seven Grand Final glories at the Theatre of Dreams, has announced he will present the match ball in readiness for the current-day gladiators to do battle. 

He said: “I’m looking forward to the challenge ahead and, as always, am so grateful for the unstinting support and encouragement we have already seen. 

“Some of my greatest memories in rugby league, of course, have occurred at Old Trafford and in the Grand Final. 

“It’s an honour to be able to take the match ball - for the biggest night in Super League - with us on our own journey before arriving at what is always an electric atmosphere and special occasion.” 

RL Commercial Managing Director and interim RFL Chief Executive Rhodri Jones added: “Sir Kevin is one of the most iconic names in Super League history. 

“He is synonymous with Grand Final night and his remarkable endeavours, all those epic running challenges we have seen over the years in support of his great friend Rob Burrow and the MND community, remain an inspiration to us all. 

“As a competition, we are delighted he’s now bringing the ball to the centre stage at Old Trafford ready for the biggest 80 minutes of the season when everything is on the line and the latest Betfred Super League champions are crowned. 

“The whole sport of Rugby League wishes Sir Kevin and all his team the very best on what promises to be yet another arduous and challenging seven days.” 

Six charities are set to benefit from this year’s fundraising. The work of the MND Association, Leeds Hospitals Charity, My Name5 Doddie Foundation, Darby Rimmer Foundation, MND Scotland and the Irish MND Association will once again be supported by the challenge.  

Sinfield and the team will wear 12 iconic designs as they visit each Super League stadium, representing each team before donning a 13th neutral design to arrive at the Betfred Super League Grand Final.  

The fundraising page is open for supporters to donate here.