Hull FC Announces Coaching Change as Cartwright Departs and McNamara Prepares to Take the Helm in 2027

John Cartwright has stepped down as head coach of Hull FC, effective immediately, paving the way for Steve McNamara to take over the role from 2027. This development comes after Hull FC and Warrington Wolves reached an agreement for McNamara to become the new head coach for the 2027 Betfred Super League season. Although Cartwright is no longer the head coach, he remains an employee of Hull FC. 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. Notably, McNamara will be returning to his boyhood club, where he began his career as a junior and went on to make over 160 senior appearances between 1989 and 1996, earning international recognition with England and Great Britain. As a seasoned coach with a distinguished two-decade career, McNamara has worked with prominent teams such as Bradford Bulls, Catalans Dragons, and the England international side, as well as having a stint in the NRL as an assistant coach with Sydney Roosters and New Zealand Warriors. During his tenure with Catalans Dragons, McNamara led the team to its most successful period, marked by 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, praising him as a coach of the highest caliber with a deep understanding of the club and the city. Similarly, Hull FC chairman Andrew Thirkill welcomed McNamara's appointment, emphasizing his experience, leadership, and standards as crucial in building a team capable of competing at the top of Super League. Throughout the season, Sky Sports will broadcast every Super League game live, including two exclusive matches per round and the remaining five matches each week on Sky Sports+.