Andrew Thirkill and David Hood Finalize Hull FC Takeover

Former Leeds Rhinos president Andrew Thirkill and businessman David Hood have acquired Hull FC, concluding Adam Pearson’s 13-year leadership of the Super League club. This development follows Hull FC’s finish in the second-to-last position in the Super League during the previous season. An exclusivity period involving Thirkill and Hood commenced in November, and Pearson verified the finalization of the handover process in a statement released on Wednesday. Pearson is set to remain with Hull in an advisory role, while Thirkill will assume the position of chairman and Hood will join the board of directors. Pearson stated: “I would like to sincerely thank our board members, off-field staff, corporate partners and our supporters for their incredible support of myself and this great club throughout my ownership across the past 13 years, and I wish the entire club and its personnel every success going forward.” He added, “I look forward to watching on as a supporter with my family over the years ahead.” Thirkill held the role of president at Leeds from 2018 until October of the current year. He is also the father of Stephanie Thirkill, whose partner, Richie Myler, serves as Hull FC’s director of rugby. The club, known as The Black and Whites, experienced a poor performance in the 2024 Super League season, securing victories in only three out of their 27 games. Their 2024 campaign is scheduled to commence on 14 February with an away match against Catalans Dragons.