Rugby legends Rob Burrow and Kevin Sinfield were both recognised for their extraordinary work to raise awareness of motor neurone disease.
The former Leeds Rhinos teammates were rewarded with CBEs for the campaign, which began when Rob was diagnosed with the condition.
Kevin has raised nearly £10million since his friend’s battle began five years ago.
Rob, 41, said: “I hope Kevin and I can go to the Palace together in the new year to enjoy another special occasion together again.”
Kevin, 43, added: “I think it is really special that Rob has been recognised again. The bravery and courage that Rob and his amazing family have shown as he is fighting MND is wonderful.”
“To open the front door and to show the world what it’s like to live with it, he’s been incredible.”
Kevin was pictured carrying Rob across the finishing line at this year’s Leeds Marathon in May – and the stars, who were boyhood friends, have co-written a book, With You Every Step.
Another MND fundraiser from sport, Rob Wainwright, will receive an OBE for charity in aid of his former Scotland teammate Doddie Weir, who died in November 2022.
He said: “This is a tremendous honour, and it’s one I accept on behalf of the whole Doddie Aid community.”
The 58-year-old set up the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation to fund research into a cure for the muscle-wasting disorder.
