Cartwright to exit Hull FC at end of year

Hull FC head coach John Cartwright will leave the club after two seasons at the end of the year.

The Australian took over for the 2025 season after the Black and Whites' miserable 2024 campaign in which they won just three Super League matches.

The 60-year-old helped them to a much-improved showing last year, as they finished three points outside the play-off places.

They have made a mixed start to 2026, with three wins and four defeats from their opening seven games.

"John joined the club during a challenging period and has played an important role in restoring stability and competitiveness on the field," chief executive officer Richie Myler told the club website.

"The board would like to place on record its sincere thanks for John's contribution during his time with the club."

Cartwright's exit means both Hull sides are now looking for new head coaches for 2027 after Willie Peters confirmed he would be leaving KR at the end of this season.

Hull FC were defeated 24-6 in their derby against Hull KR on Good Friday and, having been knocked out of the Challenge Cup in the last round by Leigh, are now not in action until Thursday, 16 April.

Hull FC were a real mess when John Cartwright was brought in to steady the ship for 2025 and despite Good Friday's derby loss to Hull KR, there has still been tangible progress as his end of season exit is confirmed.

If Cartwright isn't seen as the man to deliver the next phase of Hull's rebuild, then he still needs to harbour the credit for giving the Black and Whites structure, purpose, and a much tougher core.

His calm demeanour, forged by long experience in the game, was useful in a dressing room where confidence had been shattered after a nadir of a 2024 season.

Injuries have blighted some of his efforts to get Hull firing at their best, particularly this season, something that numerous clubs have struggled with.

There are the foundations of a strong squad albeit there are a number of players of senior - 30-plus - age to go with the young talent such as Lewis Martin, Harvey Barron and Davy Litten, so the next few years will be key to overseeing that gentle pruning of the squad to avoid wholesale changes being required.