John Cartwright has stepped down as head coach of Hull FC, effective immediately, with Steve McNamara set to succeed him from the 2027 season. Although Cartwright will remain a Hull FC employee, he has relinquished his coaching duties. Assistant coach Andy Last will assume the role of interim head coach for the remainder of the current season.
McNamara, who will continue to serve as assistant coach at Warrington Wolves for the 2026 campaign, is slated to return to his boyhood club, where he began his career and made over 160 senior appearances between 1989 and 1996. With a distinguished coaching career spanning two decades, McNamara has led teams such as Bradford Bulls, Catalans Dragons, and the England international side, as well as holding positions in the NRL with Sydney Roosters and New Zealand Warriors.
During his tenure with the Dragons, McNamara guided the team to a Challenge Cup final victory, a League Leaders Shield win, and two Super League Grand Final appearances. Hull FC chief executive Richie Myler expressed his enthusiasm for McNamara's appointment, stating that he is a coach of the highest caliber who truly understands the club and the city. Chairman Andrew Thirkill also welcomed McNamara, citing his experience, leadership, and high standards as crucial in building a competitive team. Sky Sports will continue to broadcast every Super League game live this season, including two exclusive matches per round and five additional matches on Sky Sports+.