Leeds has marked a momentous occasion in both the medical and sporting worlds, as Prince William officially inaugurated the Rob Burrow Centre for Motor Neurone Disease (MND).
The new installation, located at Headingley Stadium, is designed to give vital support to those affected by MND, a condition that profoundly changes the lives of cases and their families.
Rob Burrow and Kevin Sinfield’s Fight Against MND
Rob Burrow, the former Leeds Rhinos rugby star, has become a symbol of courage and determination since his own MND diagnosis.
Together with his long-time friend and teammate Kevin Sinfield, Burrow has played a vital part in raising mindfulness and finances for MND exploration.
Since 2019, Sinfield has raised further than £10 million for charities supporting the condition, pressing the power of sport and fellowship in making a real difference.
Opening the Rob Burrow Centre for Motor Neurone Disease in Leeds.
Named after the late Rob Burrow CBE, the centre is the first purpose-built facility dedicated entirely to MND care, research, education and holistic support in the UK, and stands as a trailblazer for others around… pic.twitter.com/gN22WINyJ4
— The Prince and Princess of Wales (@KensingtonRoyal) November 20, 2025
The induction form in early 2024 also served to honour Burrow and Sinfield’s inexhaustible sweats.
Both were presented with Commander of the Order of the British Empire( CBE) honours by Prince William, admitting their exceptional contributions to the MND cause.
Sinfield spoke of his gratefulness, emphasising the Prince’s loyal support for their crusade.
A Lasting Legacy for MND
Reflecting on the event, Prince William described his first meeting with Burrow and Sinfield in January 2024 as a “memorable initiation” into the MND community.
He added, “We’re standing in one of the most incredible buildings, supported by individuals who went above and beyond,” praising the collective efforts that have helped put MND in the public spotlight.
Sinfield, who’s preparing for another fundraising challenge beginning on 1 December 2024, stressed the significance of community in driving change. He said the induction handed a renewed sense of provocation for the work still to come.
The Rob Burrow Centre for MND stands as a lasting heritage of stopgap, adaptability, and solidarity. It promises not only to support cases and their families but also to continue advancing exploration and mindfulness in the fight against this ruinous condition.
