John Cartwright has stepped down as Hull FC's head coach, effective immediately, as the club prepares for Steve McNamara's arrival in 2027. McNamara, who will join his boyhood club, has agreed to a deal that will see him leave his current role as Warrington Wolves' assistant coach at the end of the 2026 season. In the interim, Andy Last will assume the head coach position for the remainder of the current season. McNamara, a highly respected figure in the sport, boasts an impressive coaching career spanning over two decades, with notable stints at Bradford Bulls, Catalans Dragons, and the England international side, as well as experience in the NRL.
During his tenure with the Dragons, McNamara led the team to unprecedented success, securing 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 his exceptional coaching abilities and deep understanding of the club and city. Chairman Andrew Thirkill also welcomed McNamara's appointment, citing his experience, leadership, and high standards as crucial factors in the team's future success. With McNamara's return to Hull FC, the club is poised for a new era of competition at the top of Super League.