Hull FC Announces Change in Head Coach Position with Cartwright's Departure

John Cartwright has relinquished his position as head coach of Hull FC, effective immediately. This move comes as Steve McNamara is set to take the reins as the new head coach starting from the 2027 Betfred Super League season, as jointly confirmed by Hull FC and Warrington Wolves. Although Cartwright will remain employed by Hull FC, he has stepped down from his coaching role. Assistant coach Andy Last will assume the role of interim head coach for the remainder of the current season. Meanwhile, McNamara will continue to serve as assistant coach at Warrington Wolves for the duration of the 2026 campaign. McNamara, who began his career at Hull FC, rising through the youth ranks before making over 160 senior appearances between 1989 and 1996, will return to his boyhood club. He boasts an illustrious coaching career spanning two decades, with notable stints at Bradford Bulls, Catalans Dragons, the England international side, and as an assistant coach in the NRL with Sydney Roosters and New Zealand Warriors. During his tenure at Catalans Dragons, McNamara led the team to unprecedented success, including a Challenge Cup final victory, a League Leaders Shield, and two Super League Grand Final appearances. Hull FC chief executive Richie Myler expressed his delight at securing McNamara's services, describing him as a coach of the highest caliber who truly understands the club and the city. Chairman Andrew Thirkill also welcomed McNamara's appointment, citing his experience, leadership, and standards as crucial in building a competitive team capable of consistently performing at the top of Super League. Sky Sports will continue to broadcast every Super League game live this season, including two exclusive matches per round and the remaining five matches each week on Sky Sports+.