Hull FC Appoint Steve McNamara as Head Coach

Hull FC have agreed a deal with Warrington Wolves to appoint Steve McNamara as their head coach from the 2027 Betfred Super League season, with John Cartwright stepping down from his day-to-day duties with immediate effect.

The agreement, confirmed jointly by both clubs on Friday, April 17, 2026, includes a substantial transfer fee paid by Hull FC to secure McNamara’s release from his role as assistant coach at Warrington Wolves. McNamara will remain with Warrington Wolves for the remainder of the 2026 season before taking up his position at the MKM Stadium.

Steve McNamara, 54, is a former Hull FC player who made over 160 senior appearances for the club between 1989 and 1996. He began his playing career at Hull FC before going on to represent the club at international level with England and Great Britain.

As a coach, McNamara has held head coach positions at Bradford Bulls, Catalans Dragons and the England national team. His most recent role was as head coach of Catalans Dragons from 2017 to 2025, during which he led the club to its most successful period in history, including victory in the 2018 Challenge Cup, the League Leaders’ Shield in 2021, and appearances in the Super League Grand Finals in 2021 and 2023.

John Cartwright, who had been in charge of Hull FC since the 2025 season, stepped away from his day-to-day duties as head coach immediately following the announcement. Cartwright had been set to leave at the end of the 2026 season but departed earlier after Hull FC’s loss to St Helens on Thursday, April 16, 2026, which proved to be his final match in charge.

In a statement, Hull FC confirmed that Cartwright remains an employee of the club and thanked him for his efforts during his tenure. The club noted that Cartwright had led a much-improved showing in the 2025 season after Hull FC won just three Super League matches in 2024, narrowly missing the play-offs in 2025.

Andy Last, Cartwright’s assistant, will take over as interim head coach for the remainder of the 2026 Betfred Super League season. Both clubs emphasized their commitment to ensuring a smooth transition at the conclusion of the current campaign.

Hull FC chief executive Richie Myler said the club was “delighted to secure Steve’s services” and highlighted McNamara’s status as a former player and boyhood supporter returning to lead the team. Warrington Wolves confirmed they would continue to work closely with Hull FC to facilitate the handover.

The appointment marks a significant moment for Hull FC as they prepare for the 2027 season with a coach who combines deep local ties with a proven track record at the highest level of the sport. McNamara’s return to the club where he began his career adds a personal dimension to the leadership change.