John Cartwright has officially resigned from his position as head coach of Hull FC, effective immediately. The club has announced that Steve McNamara will assume the role of head coach beginning with the 2027 Betfred Super League season. While Cartwright will remain on the club’s payroll in a different capacity, he will no longer be involved in day‑to‑day coaching duties. In the interim, assistant coach Andy Last has been promoted to caretaker head coach and will steer the side for the remainder of the current campaign.
The transition has been coordinated jointly by Hull FC and the Warrington Wolves, where McNamara currently serves as an assistant coach. He will fulfil his existing commitments with Warrington through the end of the 2026 season before moving back to his hometown club. McNamara’s appointment has been welcomed by both the playing staff and the board, who see his return as a strategic move to strengthen Hull’s long‑term prospects. Steve McNamara’s ties to Hull run deep.
He grew up in the city, progressed through the club’s junior ranks, and later made more than 160 first‑team appearances between 1989 and 1996. During his playing days he also earned caps for England and Great Britain, establishing himself as a respected figure on the international stage.
After hanging up his boots, McNamara embarked on a coaching career that has spanned over two decades and several continents. His résumé includes senior coaching roles with the Bradford Bulls and the Catalans Dragons, as well as a stint as head coach of the England national side.
In the NRL, he has contributed as an assistant coach for both the Sydney Roosters and the New Zealand Warriors, gaining valuable experience in one of the world’s most competitive rugby league environments. While in France with the Catalans Dragons, McNamara guided the club through its most successful era, delivering a Challenge Cup victory, securing a League Leaders’ Shield, and reaching two Super League Grand Finals. Those achievements cemented his reputation as one of the sport’s most capable and forward‑thinking tacticians.
Hull FC’s chief executive, Richie Myler, expressed enthusiasm about the new appointment: “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.
Steve McNamara coming home is a powerful moment for Hull FC.” The sentiment was echoed by chairman Andrew Thirkill, who added, “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.” In the short term, Andy Last will manage the squad through the remaining fixtures of the 2026 season.
The club hopes that his interim stewardship will provide stability while the coaching transition is finalized. Meanwhile, McNamara will continue to fulfil his duties at Warrington Wolves until the conclusion of their 2026 campaign, ensuring a seamless handover and allowing him to focus fully on Hull FC’s future once his contractual obligations are satisfied.
The announcement also included a technical note for supporters: the club’s video content is optimised for the Chrome browser, which offers a more accessible player experience. This reminder reflects Hull FC’s ongoing commitment to improving digital engagement for fans worldwide. Looking ahead, Hull FC aims to leverage McNamara’s extensive knowledge of both the Super League and the NRL to enhance player development, refine game strategies, and cultivate a winning culture.
The board has indicated that substantial resources will be allocated toward recruitment, facilities, and sports science, all under the guidance of the new head coach. By combining McNamara’s proven track record with Hull’s historic passion for rugby league, the club envisions a resurgence that could see them regularly challenging for major honors.
For supporters, the upcoming season promises a blend of continuity and renewal. While the immediate focus remains on finishing the current campaign strongly under Andy Last’s interim leadership, the long‑term horizon is already being shaped by McNamara’s vision.
Fans can anticipate a period of strategic planning, targeted signings, and a renewed emphasis on nurturing home‑grown talent—elements that have defined McNamara’s successful tenures elsewhere. Broadcast arrangements for the 2026 Super League will continue to be handled by Sky Sports, which will air every match live.
The network will feature two exclusive live fixtures each round, with the remaining five games broadcast throughout the week, ensuring that supporters have ample opportunity to follow Hull FC’s progress on television. In summary, John Cartwright’s departure marks the end of an era, while Steve McNamara’s appointment signals a fresh start for Hull FC.
The club’s leadership is confident that McNamara’s deep-rooted connection to the city, combined with his extensive coaching pedigree, will drive the team toward sustained competitiveness and, ultimately, success in the Super League.