In a significant development, John Cartwright has relinquished his position as head coach of Hull FC, effective immediately. This move comes as Steve McNamara is set to assume the role from 2027, following a joint announcement by Hull FC and Warrington Wolves. Although Cartwright is stepping down as head coach, he will remain an employee of Hull FC. In the interim, assistant coach Andy Last will oversee the team for the remainder of the current season.
Meanwhile, McNamara will continue in his capacity as assistant coach at Warrington Wolves until the end of the 2026 campaign. Notably, McNamara's return to his boyhood club, where he began his journey as a junior and went on to make over 160 senior appearances, marks a significant homecoming. His distinguished coaching career spans two decades, with notable stints at Bradford Bulls, Catalans Dragons, and the England international side, as well as experience in the NRL with Sydney Roosters and New Zealand Warriors.
During his tenure with Catalans Dragons, McNamara led the team to unprecedented success, including a Challenge Cup final victory and two Super League Grand Final appearances. Hull FC chief executive Richie Myler expressed his enthusiasm for McNamara's appointment, stating, 'We are delighted to secure Steve's services. He is a coach of the highest calibre, and someone who truly understands this club and the city.' Similarly, Hull FC chairman Andrew Thirkill welcomed McNamara's return, saying, 'We believe Steve is the right person to lead Hull FC into our next phase and are thrilled with his appointment.
His experience, leadership, and standards will be critical as we build a team capable of competing consistently at the top of Super League.' With this development, fans can look forward to an exciting new chapter for Hull FC, with all Super League games set to be broadcast live on Sky Sports this season.