William and Catherine meet Sinfield during MND fundraiser

Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales, visited rugby venues in Leeds and Wakefield on September 29, meeting players and community groups before surprising Kevin Sinfield at the DIY Kitchens Stadium as he completed the third day of his seven-day fundraising challenge for people affected by motor neurone disease (MND). At Headingley Rugby Stadium, home of the Leeds Rhinos, the couple learned about the club and the Leeds Rhinos Foundation’s work using sport to support health, education, inclusion and wellbeing. Kensington Palace said the visit also focused on the Rugby League Development Plan, which works to increase participation, develop coaches and expand opportunities for women and girls. Catherine, patron of the Rugby Football League, wished players preparing for the Rugby League World Cup good luck, according to one account. The couple later travelled to Wakefield, where Sinfield was taking part in the 7 in 7 challenge. The challenge involves completing an ultramarathon each day for seven days and was inspired by former Leeds Rhinos player Rob Burrow, who died in June 2024 after living with MND.