Hull FC will be on the hunt for a new head coach this offseason, as the club has confirmed John Cartwright will depart at the end of the 2026 campaign. The Australian's two-year tenure, which brought a measure of stability, is now set to conclude.
Cartwright arrived ahead of the 2025 season, tasked with reviving a club reeling from a dismal 2024 where they managed only three Super League wins. His immediate impact was positive, steering the Black and Whites to a much more respectable league position, finishing just three points shy of the play-offs last year.
The current 2026 season has proven more inconsistent, with Hull FC recording three wins and four losses from their first seven outings. This mixed form follows recent setbacks, including a 24-6 derby defeat to rivals Hull KR on Good Friday and an exit from the Challenge Cup at the hands of Leigh Leopards.
In a statement, Hull FC CEO Richie Myler acknowledged Cartwright's role in steadying the ship: "John joined the club during a challenging period and has played an important role in restoring stability and competitiveness on the field. The board would like to place on record its sincere thanks for John's contribution." The club now has a crucial period to plan its next move, with their next match not scheduled until Thursday, 16 April.
