Kevin Sinfield has been knighted in the King's Birthday Honours, becoming only the second rugby league figure to receive the accolade after Billy Boston. The former Leeds Rhinos and England captain led his club to seven Super League titles between 2004 and 2015, and has raised over £11m for Motor Neurone Disease research through annual fundraising challenges.

Six members of England's Euro 2025-winning squad have been made MBEs: Michelle Agyemang, Jess Carter, Hannah Hampton, Lauren James, Chloe Kelly and Alessia Russo. They join five teammates recognised in the New Year list. Former rugby league legend Neil Fox receives a CBE upgrade, while golfer Luke Donald, snooker player Shaun Murphy and ex-rugby union captain Emily Scarratt are appointed OBEs.

Lou Macari earns an MBE for services to football and homeless people in Stoke-on-Trent, alongside Gary Street, who coached England women to 2014 World Cup glory. Ex-Arsenal vice-chairman David Dein receives an OBE for his charity work through The Twinning Project. Sinfield's knighthood recognizes his MND fundraising efforts inspired by late friend Rob Burrow, who died in 2024.

These honours reflect British sport's celebration of excellence both on and off the field, with Sinfield's elevation marking a historic moment for rugby league while the Lionesses' recognition caps a landmark year for women's football.