Summary
Rugby league officials and supporters are calling for the sport's first knighthood or damehood, noting that in its 130-year history, no rugby league players have received such recognition. They argue that rugby league has been overlooked compared to other sports which have received these honors more frequently. Critics suggest that class and regional biases might be behind this lack of recognition.
Key Facts
- Rugby league has not had a player knighted in its 130-year history.
- The Rugby Football League says the honors system has "poorly treated" its players.
- Sir Lindsay Hoyle and other MPs are speaking out about the lack of knighthoods for rugby league.
- Rugby union, a related sport, has received knighthoods more regularly.
- Rugby league supporters claim class and regional snobbery might be influencing the lack of honors.
- Kevin Sinfield is a notable rugby league player who has raised over £10 million for charity.
- A BBC analysis showed few top honors were given to individuals from northern England and working-class backgrounds, areas linked to rugby league.
- The Prince of Wales recently awarded CBEs to Kevin Sinfield and Rob Burrow at their former playing ground.
