Hull FC head coach Tony Smith departs after poor start to Super League season

Hull FC head coach Tony Smith has parted ways with the club after a disappointing start to the Super League season. The Australian coach, who took over in 2022, has overseen just one win in seven league games this year, leading to his departure.

Smith’s tenure at Hull FC saw the team finish 10th last season, winning only 10 out of 27 games. This season has been even more challenging, with the team losing six out of seven league matches so far. Assistant coach Stanley Gene has also left the club, with Simon Grix and Francis Cummins taking over on an interim basis.

Chairman Adam Pearson expressed his gratitude to Smith and Gene for their contributions to the club but stated that the decision to part ways was necessary at this time. The team will be under new leadership when they face St Helens on April 19 after being eliminated from the Challenge Cup by Huddersfield.

Despite his successful coaching career with other teams, Smith struggled to find a winning formula at Hull FC. Issues with player discipline, injuries, and reported player dissatisfaction have plagued the team’s performance this season. The club, with its strong infrastructure and passionate fanbase, has seen multiple coaches come and go without achieving sustained success.

As Hull FC looks to turn their season around, the search for a new head coach begins. Smith’s departure marks the end of an era for the team, as they aim to regroup and push forward in the Super League.