John Cartwright has left his post as head coach of Hull FC, joining Steve McNamara in taking up the role from 2027.
Hull FC and Warrington Wolves have jointly confirmed that Steve McNamara has agreed to become Hull FC’s new manager for the 2027 Betfred Super League season.
Cartwright remains on the Hull FC staff but has now stepped down from that role.
Assistant coach Andy Last will now serve as interim head coach until the end of the season.
McNamara will continue as assistant coach at Warrington Wolves for the remainder of the 2026 campaign.
Use the Chrome browser for a more accessible video player
Highlights of the Betfred Super League clash between Hull and St Helens.
McNamara will return to his boyhood club, where he grew up through the youth ranks as a junior, before going on to have a highly respected playing career, making more than 160 senior appearances between 1989 and 1996, including international caps for England and England.
One of the game’s leading coaches, McNamara has enjoyed a distinguished coaching career over the past 20 years during spells with the Bradford Bulls, Catalans Dragons and England internationals, and in the NRL as an assistant coach with the Sydney Roosters and New Zealand Warriors.
During his time in the south of France, McNamara led the Dragons to one of the most successful periods in their history, including a Challenge Cup final victory, League Leaders Shield success and two Super League grand final appearances.
Use the Chrome browser for a more accessible video player
John Cartwright reacts to the news that he has been released by Hull FC at the end of 2026 and reveals what is happening behind the scenes.
Richie Myler, CEO of Hull FC, said: “We are delighted to have secured the services of Steve, he is a top-class coach and someone who truly understands this club and city.
“Having Steve McNamara home is a powerful moment for Hull FC.”
Hull FC Chairman Andrew Tyrkil said: “We believe Steve is the right person to lead Hull FC to the next level and we are delighted with his appointment.”
“His experience, leadership and standards will be vital as we build a team that can consistently compete at the top of Super League.”
2026 Super League – Key dates and things to watch out for
- Paris Super League: Saturday June 6th: Catalans Dragons v Wigan Warriors (Paris)6:30 PM in the UK (sky sports)
- Magic Weekend: July 4th – July 5th
- Rival Round Reversal: July 23rd – July 26th
- Elimination playoffs: September 19th – September 20th
- playoff semifinals: September 26 ~ September 27
- Grand Finals: October 3, Old Trafford.
sky sports We will be broadcasting live again every Super League match this season. Two matches from each round will be broadcast exclusively live, while the remaining five matches will be shown weekly on Sky Sports+.
