Andrew Thirkill and David Hood have accepted responsibility for Hull FC’s disappointing campaign, promising structural changes, continued investment, and a renewed focus on future success.
Hull FC Owners Apologise for ‘Difficult’ Season as Club Promises Long-Term Rebuild
July 20, 2026-Hull FC owners Andrew Thirkill and David Hood have issued a public apology to supporters following what they described as an “unacceptable” and “difficult” 2026 season. In a statement released by the club, the owners accepted responsibility for the team’s struggles, acknowledged mistakes had been made, and pledged to continue investing in a long-term rebuild aimed at returning Hull FC to the top of Super League. They also thanked supporters for their loyalty during one of the club’s most challenging campaigns in recent years.
Why Did Hull FC’s Owners Apologise?
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The statement opens with a direct apology to every Hull FC supporter, with Thirkill and Hood admitting that performances and results throughout the season had fallen well below expectations.
The owners described the campaign as “unacceptable” and said no one was more disappointed than they were with how the season had unfolded. While acknowledging supporters’ frustration, they insisted they remain confident that the club’s future is brighter than its current league position suggests.
Owners Reflect on the Challenges They Inherited
According to Thirkill and Hood, rebuilding Hull FC has involved much more than improving results on the field.
They explained that when they purchased the club, they discovered financial, operational, and organisational issues that were significantly more serious than they had initially understood. As a result, much of their ownership has focused on stabilising the club while investing in long-term improvements behind the scenes. The owners stressed that these circumstances do not excuse the disappointing season but argued they provide important context for the scale of the rebuilding task.
On-Field Results Fell Short Despite Investment
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Hull FC entered the season with optimism after strengthening the squad and committing its full salary-cap resources to recruitment. However, the anticipated improvement in performances failed to materialise. The owners pointed to the club’s disappointing Challenge Cup defeat to Leigh as an early indication that further changes would be required.
As the season progressed, they concluded that standards across the rugby operation—including preparation, consistency, and overall performance—were not at the level expected for a club with Hull FC’s history and ambitions.
Why Steve McNamara Was Chosen
A significant part of the statement focused on the appointment of Steve McNamara as Hull FC’s next permanent head coach. The owners said they wanted an experienced leader capable of establishing a high-performance culture throughout the organisation. After evaluating potential candidates, they concluded that McNamara possessed the authority, experience, and vision needed to lead the next phase of the club’s rebuild.
The appointment also led to the decision not to extend former head coach John Cartwright’s contract beyond the season. Following subsequent developments, Andy Last took over as interim head coach, with the owners expressing gratitude for his professionalism during a difficult period.
Injuries Added to Hull FC’s Problems
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The statement also highlighted an unprecedented injury crisis that severely disrupted the team’s campaign. With the club already operating at its salary-cap limit, Hull FC said it had little flexibility to strengthen the squad through additional mid-season signings.
Rather than viewing injuries as the sole explanation for poor results, the owners acknowledged that several factors contributed to the disappointing campaign while reaffirming their commitment to improving standards across every department.
Plans for a Stronger Future
Beyond coaching changes, Hull FC outlined several initiatives designed to modernise the club.
Among the most significant is an expanded partnership with the University of Hull, allowing the club to benefit from advanced sports science, performance expertise, and training facilities. Club offices are also expected to relocate to the university campus as part of a broader effort to integrate on-field and off-field operations.
The owners believe these investments will create the professional environment necessary for sustained success in modern rugby league.
Supporters Thanked for Their Loyalty
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Despite a difficult campaign, Hull FC’s owners reserved some of their strongest words of appreciation for the club’s supporters.
They praised fans for continuing to back the team in large numbers at home and away despite disappointing results, describing Hull FC’s fanbase as one of the most passionate in rugby league.
As a gesture of thanks, the club announced free official coach travel for members and non-members attending the remaining domestic away fixtures against Huddersfield Giants, St Helens, and Leeds Rhinos.
Can Hull FC Turn Things Around?
While the apology acknowledges the disappointment of the current season, the owners insist the focus is now firmly on the future.
Their strategy combines investment in infrastructure, leadership changes, improved performance systems, and continued financial backing. Whether those measures translate into improved results on the field will become clearer over the coming seasons. For supporters, the statement represents both an admission that mistakes were made and a commitment to rebuilding the club with greater stability and higher standards.
Speculation
Whether the structural changes and coaching appointment will lead to improved performances remains uncertain. The long-term success of the rebuilding strategy will depend on future results, recruitment, and player development.
FAQs
Why did Hull FC’s owners apologise?
They described the 2026 season as unacceptable and accepted responsibility for the club’s poor performances and results.
Who owns Hull FC?
Hull FC is owned by Andrew Thirkill and David Hood.
Who will coach Hull FC next season?
Steve McNamara has been appointed as the club’s next permanent head coach.
What changes are Hull FC making?
The club is strengthening its high-performance structure, expanding its partnership with the University of Hull, improving facilities, and continuing investment in the rugby operation.
How are supporters being thanked?
Hull FC will provide free official coach travel for supporters attending the club’s remaining domestic away matches as a gesture of appreciation.
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Published by HOLR Magazine
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