Prince William sends 'huge congratulations' to close friend raising money for charity

Lewis Henderson

By Lewis Henderson


Published: 06/12/2025

- 16:22

The Prince of Wales joked with his friend to 'look after those knees'

Prince William has sent his "congratulations" to his close friend, Kevin Sinfield, as the rugby union coach raises money and awareness for motor neurone disease (MND).

The rugby league legend set off from Bramall Lane stadium in Sheffield as he completed his seven-in-seven challenge.


Mr Sinfield and his team have already raised over £1million for the cause in this fundraiser and generated over £10million across five previous challenges.

The Prince of Wales took to social media to share his support.

Prince William, Kevin SinfieldPrince William sent his 'congratulations' to Kevin Sinfield | PA

William wrote: "Kevin, huge congratulations on nearing the finish of your incredible seven-in-seven challenge!

"Your commitment to Rob (Burrow) and everyone affected by MND is truly inspiring.

"Thank you for shining a light on the need for research and support, and for the hope and example you bring. Look after those knees! W."

Mr Sinfield is set to finish his challenge on December 7 at the Rhinos' AMT Headingley Stadium, and combine with the Leeds Santa Dash.

Kevin Sinfield

William wrote: 'Kevin, huge congratulations on nearing the finish of your incredible 7 in 7 challenge!'

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PA

The Prince of Wales highlighted Kevin's dedication to Rob Burrow, who was awarded an MBE by Princess Anne in April 2022.

William made both Sinfield and Burrow Commanders of the Order of the British Empire (CBEs) at the Rhinos' Headingley Stadium in January 2024.

When presenting Mr Burrow his CBE last year, William said: "I brought your CBEs up here to give to you today if that's okay.

"While you're in your home, in Leeds, surrounded by your family and friends - I thought today was a good day.

Kevin Sinfield

Kevin Sinfield and his team have previously raised over £10million

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PA

"The most amount of thank yous and congratulations for all the inspirational work you've done, Rob, you've been amazing, and everyone's so proud of you."

Mr Burrow passed away in June 2024, after a four-and-a-half-year battle with MND during which he devoted himself to raising awareness and money for treatment and research.

The Prince of Wales kept his promise to Mr Burrow as he travelled to Leeds to officially open the Rob Burrow Centre for MMD.

It is the first purpose-built centre dedicated entirely to MND care, research, education and holistic support in the UK, and stands as a trailblazer for other centres around the country.

\u200bRob Burrow

Rob Burrow passed away at the age of 41 after a long battle with MND

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PA

William was met on arrival by Lindsey and her children, Macy, Maya and Jackson, as well as Mr Sinfield.

The father-of-three then toured the new world-leading facility, including seeing its R&D area, where he was joined by Mr Burrow's father, Geoff.

The prince also met others who supported the fundraising efforts, as well as the medical team, who are already providing care to patients and their families.

Mr Burrow was an English rugby league legend who played his entire 16-year career with the Leeds Rhinos, winning eight Super League Grand Finals.