Hull FC Announces Coaching Transition as Cartwright Departs and McNamara Prepares to Take the Helm

John Cartwright has stepped down as Hull FC's head coach with immediate effect, paving the way for Steve McNamara to take over the role from 2027. Although Cartwright is no longer at the helm, he remains an employee of the club. In the interim, assistant coach Andy Last will assume the head coach position until the end of the current season. Meanwhile, McNamara will continue to serve as assistant coach at Warrington Wolves for the remainder of the 2026 campaign. McNamara, a Hull FC youth product, had a storied playing career with over 160 senior appearances and international representation with England and Great Britain. As a coach, he has had a distinguished career spanning two decades, with notable stints at Bradford Bulls, Catalans Dragons, and the England international side, as well as 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 win, 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, stating that he is 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 critical in building a team capable of competing consistently 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 on Sky Sports+.