John Cartwright has officially vacated his position as head coach of Hull FC, effective immediately, paving the way for Steve McNamara to assume the role starting with the 2027 Betfred Super League campaign. The club, in conjunction with Warrington Wolves, announced that a formal agreement has been reached, confirming McNamara’s appointment as the new leader of Hull FC’s first‑team squad for the upcoming season.
While Cartwright will remain employed by Hull FC in a different capacity, he has relinquished his coaching duties, allowing the organization to transition smoothly. In the interim, assistant coach Andy Last has been promoted to caretaker head coach and will steer the team through the remainder of the current season. This temporary arrangement ensures continuity for the players and staff while the club finalises preparations for McNamara’s arrival.
Meanwhile, McNamara will continue his commitments as an assistant coach at Warrington Wolves until the close of the 2026 campaign, after which he will relocate back to his hometown club. Steve McNamara’s connection to Hull FC runs deep. He progressed through the club’s junior system, developing his skills and footballing instincts from a young age.
Between 1989 and 1996, he amassed more than 160 senior appearances for the Hull side, earning a reputation as a reliable and versatile player. His on‑field contributions were complemented by international honours, as he represented both England and Great Britain during his playing career, showcasing his talent on the world stage. Following his retirement as a player, McNamara embarked on a coaching journey that has spanned over two decades and several continents. He has held senior coaching positions with the Bradford Bulls and Catalans Dragons, and he has also served as head coach of the England national team.
His résumé includes valuable experience in the Australian NRL, where he worked as an assistant coach for the Sydney Roosters and later the New Zealand Warriors, gaining insight into the highest levels of professional rugby league. Perhaps his most notable achievements came during his tenure with the Catalans Dragons in the south of France.
Under McNamara’s guidance, the Dragons enjoyed the most prosperous period in their history, capturing a Challenge Cup victory, securing the League Leaders' Shield, and reaching two Super League Grand Finals. These successes cemented his status as one of the sport’s most respected tacticians and leaders. Hull FC’s chief executive, Richie Myler, expressed enthusiasm about the forthcoming partnership: "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 also signals a strategic shift for Hull FC as they aim to rebuild and challenge for honours in the coming years. By securing a coach with deep roots in the community and a proven track record of success, the club hopes to foster a culture of excellence, develop homegrown talent, and re‑establish itself as a perennial contender in the Super League.
Fans can look forward to a period of renewed optimism, with the promise of fresh ideas, modern training methodologies, and a clear vision for the future. The interim leadership of Andy Last will maintain stability, while McNamara prepares his coaching staff, scouting network, and player recruitment strategy ahead of his 2027 debut. The club’s management has indicated that significant investment in player development and facilities will accompany the coaching change, ensuring that the infrastructure aligns with the ambitious targets set by the new regime. In addition to the on‑field developments, Hull FC continues to enhance its broadcast and fan‑engagement platforms.
Sky Sports will once again provide comprehensive live coverage of the Super League this season, offering two matches per round exclusively live and streaming the remaining five fixtures each week. This partnership aims to deliver high‑quality viewing experiences for supporters, both locally and internationally, and to increase the league’s visibility. Overall, the departure of John Cartwright and the appointment of Steve McNamara represent a pivotal moment for Hull FC. The club is poised to blend tradition with innovation, leveraging McNamara’s extensive experience and personal connection to the city to drive performance improvements.
As the 2027 season approaches, expectations will rise, and the Hull community will be eager to see how the new leadership translates its vision into tangible success on the rugby league field.