John Cartwright has stepped down as Hull FC's head coach, effective immediately, paving the way for Steve McNamara to take the reins in 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 in the head coach role, 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 and made over 160 senior appearances between 1989 and 1996.
His 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 its most successful period, achieving a Challenge Cup final win, a League Leaders Shield, and two Super League Grand Final appearances. Hull FC's chief executive, Richie Myler, expressed 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." Additionally, Hull FC chairman Andrew Thirkill commented, "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." Sky Sports will continue to broadcast every Super League game live, including two exclusive matches per round and the remaining five matches on Sky Sports+.