John Cartwright has officially resigned from his position as 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 announcement was made jointly by Hull FC and the Warrington Wolves, confirming that a formal agreement is now in place for McNamara to take over the reins at the end of the 2026 season. While Cartwright will continue to be employed by Hull FC in a different capacity, he has relinquished his coaching responsibilities.
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 until a permanent appointment is confirmed. Steve McNamara, meanwhile, will remain on the coaching staff of the Warrington Wolves as an assistant for the balance of the 2026 campaign before making the transition to his hometown club. McNamara’s connection to Hull runs deep; he progressed through the club’s junior system before breaking into the first‑team squad, where he amassed more than 160 senior appearances between 1989 and 1996. His playing career also featured caps for both England and Great Britain, underscoring his status as a respected figure in the sport.
Beyond his playing days, McNamara has built an impressive coaching résumé that spans two decades and several continents. He has held senior coaching positions with the Bradford Bulls and the Catalans Dragons, and he served as the head coach of the England national side.
His experience also includes stints in the Australian NRL, where he worked as an assistant coach for the Sydney Roosters and the New Zealand Warriors, gaining valuable insights into the highest levels of professional rugby league. Perhaps the most notable chapter of McNamara’s coaching career unfolded during his tenure with the Catalans Dragons in the south of France. Under his guidance, the Dragons enjoyed the most successful period in their history, capturing a Challenge Cup final victory, securing a League Leaders' Shield, and reaching the Super League Grand Final on two occasions. These achievements cemented his reputation as one of the premier tacticians and leaders in the modern game.
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 club 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 comes at a pivotal time for Hull FC, which is looking to re‑establish itself as a regular contender for the Super League title.
With Andy Last at the helm on an interim basis, the club hopes to maintain stability while laying the groundwork for McNamara’s long‑term vision. Fans can expect a period of strategic recruitment, development of home‑grown talent, and a renewed emphasis on the playing style that reflects both the club’s heritage and the modern demands of the sport. In addition to the coaching changes, the 2026 season will continue to be broadcast extensively.
Sky Sports has confirmed that it will once again provide live coverage of every Super League match throughout the season. Two fixtures per round will be shown exclusively live, while the remaining five matches each week will also be available on Sky Sports+, ensuring that supporters have ample opportunity to follow their teams. The move also highlights a broader trend within rugby league of clubs seeking to bring back former players and coaches who have a deep personal connection to the community.
By appointing McNamara—a native son who rose through Hull’s own ranks—the club aims to foster a sense of continuity and pride among its supporters, while also leveraging his extensive international experience to elevate the squad’s performance on the field. Looking ahead, McNamara’s appointment is expected to influence Hull FC’s recruitment strategy, training methodologies, and overall club culture. His proven ability to guide teams to silverware, combined with his familiarity with the Hull fan base, positions him as a catalyst for potential success in the upcoming seasons.
The club’s leadership anticipates that his arrival will not only improve results but also strengthen the bond between the team and its passionate local following. Overall, the departure of Cartwright and the forthcoming arrival of McNamara mark a significant shift in Hull FC’s strategic direction. As the club navigates the remainder of the 2026 season under interim guidance, the focus will remain on maintaining competitive performance while preparing for a seamless transition to McNamara’s stewardship in 2027.
Supporters, players, and staff alike are poised for a new chapter that promises both continuity with the club’s storied past and ambition for future triumphs.