Hull FC Part Ways with Head Coach Tony Smith After Poor Start to Super League Season

Hull FC have made the tough decision to part ways with head coach Tony Smith after a disappointing start to the Super League season. Smith, who took over the reins in September 2022, leaves the club after 18 months in charge with Hull FC currently second-bottom of the table.

The Australian coach, who previously managed city rivals Hull KR, led Hull FC to a 10th-placed finish in last season’s Super League. However, the team has struggled in the 2024 campaign, losing six out of their seven games so far.

In what turned out to be Smith’s final game in charge, Hull FC suffered a heavy home defeat to Huddersfield Giants. Assistant coach Stanley Gene has also departed his role alongside Smith.

Assistant coach Simon Grix and head of emerging talent Francis Cummins have been appointed as interim coaches of the first team. Smith expressed his disappointment in not being able to see the job through but wished the club and players well for the future.

Hull FC chairman Adam Pearson thanked Smith and Gene for their contributions to the club and stated that further restructuring will take place in the coming days.

Smith’s tenure at Hull FC included a controversial switch from Hull KR and a challenging first season that saw the team suffer heavy losses. Despite a lone victory over London Broncos, the team’s struggles ultimately led to the decision to part ways with Smith.

As Hull FC looks to turn their season around, fans will be eager to see how the team responds under new coaching leadership.