Hull FC have made a major coaching change, securing a deal with Warrington Wolves to bring Steve McNamara back to the club as head coach for next season. This move accelerates the departure of current coach John Cartwright, who has stepped down from his day-to-day duties with immediate effect.

The club confirmed it has agreed to pay a substantial transfer fee to release McNamara from his role as Warrington's assistant coach. McNamara, 54, is a familiar face at Hull FC, having begun his playing career there and made over 160 senior appearances for the Black and Whites.

Cartwright's exit, however, is shrouded in controversy. While the club's initial statement indicated a mutual end-of-season departure, Cartwright publicly stated this week that the decision "wasn't mutual" and that he felt "betrayed and disrespected." His assistant, Andy Last, will now take over as interim head coach for the remainder of the current Super League campaign.

McNamara brings a proven track record to the role, most notably from his successful stint with Catalans Dragons where he guided the team to their first-ever Challenge Cup victory in 2018. His appointment signals a new direction for Hull FC as they look to build on the improved performances seen under Cartwright last season and return to the upper echelons of Super League.