John Cartwright has stepped down as Hull FC's head coach, effective immediately, paving the way for Steve McNamara to take over in 2027. McNamara, who will join his boyhood club, has signed an agreement to become the new head coach for the 2027 Betfred Super League season.
In the interim, assistant coach Andy Last will assume the head coach role for the remainder of the current season. McNamara will continue to serve as assistant coach at Warrington Wolves for the rest of the 2026 campaign.
A highly respected figure in the sport, McNamara boasts an impressive coaching career spanning two decades, with notable stints at Bradford Bulls, Catalans Dragons, and the England international side, as well as experience in the NRL. His achievements include leading the Dragons to a Challenge Cup final win, a League Leaders Shield, and two Super League Grand Final appearances.
Hull FC's chief executive, Richie Myler, expressed his delight at securing McNamara's services, praising him as a 'coach of the highest calibre' who understands the club and the city. Chairman Andrew Thirkill also welcomed the appointment, citing McNamara's experience, leadership, and standards as crucial in building a competitive team. With McNamara's return to his roots, Hull FC looks forward to a new era under his guidance.