John Cartwright has officially vacated his position as the head coach of Hull FC, effective immediately, paving the way for Steve McNamara to assume the role beginning with the 2027 Betfred Super League campaign. The decision was confirmed jointly by Hull FC and the Warrington Wolves, who announced that a formal agreement has been reached for McNamara to take the reins at Hull FC starting in 2027. While Cartwright will remain employed by Hull FC in a different capacity, he has relinquished his coaching duties. In the interim, assistant coach Andy Last has been promoted to interim head coach and will oversee the squad for the remainder of the current season.
Meanwhile, McNamara will continue to fulfill his responsibilities as an assistant coach with the Warrington Wolves until the conclusion of the 2026 season. McNamara’s appointment is especially poignant because it marks a return to his boyhood club, the team where he progressed through the junior ranks before breaking into the senior side. Between 1989 and 1996, he amassed more than 160 first‑team appearances, earning a reputation as a reliable and versatile player. His on‑field achievements were complemented by international honors, as he represented both England and Great Britain during his playing career.
Beyond his playing days, Steve McNamara has built a reputation as one of the most respected coaches in modern rugby league. Over the past two decades he has accumulated a wealth of experience across several high‑profile appointments. He cut his coaching teeth with the Bradford Bulls before moving to the Catalans Dragons, where he enjoyed a period of unprecedented success. While at Catalans, McNamara guided the French side to a Challenge Cup final victory, secured a League Leaders' Shield, and steered the team to two Super League Grand Final appearances – achievements that remain the most illustrious in the club’s history.
His résumé also includes a stint in the NRL, where he served as an assistant coach with both the Sydney Roosters and the New Zealand Warriors, gaining valuable insights into the Australian style of play. In addition, McNamara has contributed to the England national team as part of the coaching staff, further cementing his status as a coach with a truly international pedigree. Hull FC’s chief executive, Richie Myler, expressed enthusiasm about the new partnership, 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. 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." The transition period will see Andy Last guiding the team through the final fixtures of the 2024 season, while McNamara completes his commitments with Warrington. Fans can expect a seamless handover, as both clubs have coordinated closely to ensure continuity for players, staff, and supporters alike. In addition to the coaching changes, the broadcasting landscape for the Super League remains robust.
Sky Sports has confirmed that it will continue to broadcast every game live throughout the season. Each round will feature two matches streamed exclusively live, while the remaining five fixtures will also be available on the Sky Sports+ platform, providing comprehensive coverage for the league’s growing audience.
Overall, the appointment of Steve McNamara represents a strategic move by Hull FC to blend seasoned expertise with a deep-rooted connection to the club’s heritage. His proven track record of turning teams into contenders, combined with his personal ties to Hull, positions him as a catalyst for future success. As the 2027 season approaches, anticipation builds among the Hull faithful, who hope that McNamara’s return will usher in a new era of competitiveness and ambition for the Tigers.