Rugby league officials express concern over the perceived slighting of their players within the British honours system, advocating for the sport’s first knighthood or damehood after 130 years.
The sport’s governing body, the Rugby Football League, issued a statement expressing “surprise and disappointment” at the lack of recognition.
The Speaker of the House of Commons, Sir Lindsay Hoyle, echoed these sentiments, stating to the BBC that the absence of such honors for rugby league players is “unacceptable,” particularly given their frequent bestowal upon other sports, including rugby union.
David Baines, chair of the all-party Parliamentary rugby league group, attributed this oversight to class prejudice, suggesting that the predominantly working-class background of rugby league players has hindered their recognition.
He asserted that this “scandal” must end, calling for a shift in perspective and a reevaluation of the honors system.
Sir Lindsay Hoyle, a former Rugby Football League president, highlighted the sport’s rich history and the many exemplary players who have inspired generations, emphasizing the injustice of a complete absence of knighthoods.
He advocated for rugby league to receive the recognition it deserves.
In contrast, rugby union, often associated with a more affluent demographic, has a long-standing tradition of knighthoods, with recent examples including Sir Bill Beaumont.
Numerous other sports have also received such honors.
The upcoming Challenge Cup Final at Wembley Stadium further underscores the prominence of the sport.
Mr. Baines emphasized the injustice of excluding some of Britain’s greatest sporting heroes, citing examples such as Billy Boston and Clive Sullivan, who overcame prejudice, and modern figures like Kevin Sinfield.
England rugby star Kevin Sinfield’s extensive charitable work, raising over £10 million for motor neurone disease research, exemplifies this dedication.
Billy Boston, a celebrated Welsh rugby league player, is another example, with a petition launched earlier this year advocating for a knighthood.
The Rugby Football League acknowledged historical underrepresentation in the honors system, noting that while CBEs and OBEs have been awarded, knighthoods remain absent.
Kevin Sinfield and Rob Burrow received CBEs from the Prince of Wales last year.
A recent BBC analysis highlighted the underrepresentation of individuals from northern England and working-class backgrounds in top honors.
The government acknowledges this disparity, stating that an independent chair is being appointed to improve diversity and outreach within the honours system.
A government spokesperson emphasized the commitment to ensuring the honors system reflects the diversity of UK society and encouraged nominations for exceptional contributions.
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Further unrelated news items about King Charles’s Canadian visit are included.