Devastating news has hit Hull FC fans as the club confirms a season-ending injury for one of their rising stars. But here's where it gets even more challenging for the team...
In a recent update, Hull FC head coach John Cartwright revealed that young winger Joe Ward has suffered a ruptured ACL during Sunday’s pre-season match against Huddersfield Giants. This severe injury means Ward will miss the entire 2026 season, a significant blow to both the player and the club. The injury occurred during a clash at Brantingham Park, and subsequent scans confirmed the worst-case scenario for the talented outside back, who made his first-team debut in the Challenge Cup last year.
Ward now faces a lengthy rehabilitation process, with the goal of returning to full fitness by the start of the 2027 season. Cartwright emphasized the seriousness of the injury, stating, “It’s a major injury, an ACL, and it’s a long road to recovery, but Joe has a strong support system around him—from staff to teammates—ensuring he gets the best possible care.”
And this is the part most people miss: While Ward’s injury is undoubtedly a setback, it also opens up opportunities for other players to step up and prove their worth. How will Hull FC adapt to this loss? Will this challenge bring the team closer together, or will it expose vulnerabilities in their lineup? These questions remain to be answered as the season unfolds.
In other injury news, Hull FC will be without prop Matty Laidlaw for this week’s pre-season game against Wigan Warriors. Laidlaw is undergoing protocols after failing a Head Injury Assessment (HIA) against Huddersfield. Additionally, Liam Knight will sit out for a week after sustaining a head knock during training. Knight, who has been in full training since the new year, is fully recovered from a broken ankle suffered last season. Cartwright assured fans that both players are expected to return soon, pending successful completion of their respective protocols.
Here’s a controversial take: With multiple players sidelined due to injuries, some fans are questioning the club’s training and conditioning methods. Is this a string of bad luck, or is there a deeper issue at play? Weigh in below—do you think Hull FC needs to reevaluate their approach to player health and safety?
Further updates from Cartwright include minor injuries for Joe Phillips and Roman Dawson, the latter still recovering from back-to-back ACL injuries. Ben Johnson, however, has returned to full training after a pre-season knock. Meanwhile, Herman Ese’ese continues his rehab from an Achilles rupture sustained last August, and the club is closely monitoring James Bell (knee) and John Asiata (hamstring), both of whom are recovering from surgeries.
As Hull FC navigates this wave of injuries, the resilience and depth of their squad will be tested. Will they rise to the occasion, or will these setbacks define their season? Only time will tell. What’s your take on Hull FC’s current situation? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
