Rugby union journalist David Walsh has disclosed the distressing reason behind the exclusion of Leeds Rhinos legends Kevin Sinfield and Rob Burrow from receiving knighthoods.
This revelation comes in response to the recent news that rugby union figure Bill Beaumont was essentially granted a second knighthood, while Sinfield and Burrow, who have collectively raised £15 million in the fight against motor neurone disease (MND), were not similarly honored. Despite their significant contributions to the MND cause—particularly in light of Burrow’s personal battle since his diagnosis in December 2019—the duo is set to receive CBEs in 2024.
Sinfield had previously been awarded an MBE for his playing career and later an OBE for his charitable endeavors within the MND community, while Burrow received an MBE for his courageous fight against MND.
Nevertheless, knighthoods continue to elude them, and Walsh has attempted to shed light on the matter in his insightful piece in The Times, prefacing it with the following cautionary note:
“It is prudent not to ascribe too much significance to the annual honors list. While there are undoubtedly deserving recipients, some individuals find their way onto the list through political contributions or connections with a bold former prime minister. The recent notoriety surrounding the 11 recipients of Liz Truss’s patronage only adds to the skepticism.
The question arises: should we extend a degree of sympathy for their newfound infamy, or should we be appalled that they lacked the discernment to decline? Moreover, the act of conferring titles on athletes for their contributions to their respective sports raises valid concerns. Many athletes, for their prowess in football, running, or cricket, are already generously compensated, with some earning millions and nearly all enjoying the privilege of making the honors list.”
He went on to clarify that the omission of knighthoods for Kevin Sinfield and Rob Burrow stems from the fact that rugby league, in contrast to rugby union, does not hold the same status within the establishment. Consequently, it is not accorded the same level of recognition as rugby union and other sports.
Regardless, it remains profoundly disheartening to witness these two exceptionally deserving individuals once again being overlooked for knighthoods as we enter 2024. Despite their impending honors as Commanders of the Order of the British Empire (CBE), the anticipation for knighthoods continues to be deferred.
