Hull FC have confirmed another new recruit.
New Hull FC signing Connor Bailey has laid out his excitement to join the club next season – with the young back rower aiming to take his confidence and form into Super League in 2026 and beyond.
Currently with Championship outfit York Knights, Bailey, who Hull Live exclusively reported Hull had signed back in March, has been part of a side that has won their last 18 games in all competitions and who could wrap up top spot in the league against Batley Bulldogs this weekend.
The player is also no stranger to Super League and to Hull, having debuted for Wakefield Trinity against the Black and Whites as a 19-year-old back in 2020. That day, Bailey lined up at half-back, with the back rower also able to cover the centre and loose-forward positions as a versatile player. He has also played at Newcastle Knights, spending three seasons with the northeast club before joining York ahead of 2024.
Still only 24 years old, Bailey has signed a two-year deal with the Black and Whites, with the club holding a club option for a third season in 2028. He is also a prolific try-scoring forward, notching up 19 in 60 games for York to date.
Speaking on his move to Hull, Bailey said: “Signing for a club like Hull FC is one of the proudest moments of my career and I’m really looking forward to it.
“I’ve been playing with a lot of confidence this year and that’s been helped by how strong York have been going in the Championship, obviously within touching distance of lifting the League Leaders Shield and winning the 1895 Cup at Wembley.
“Super League is a different ball game compared to the Championship, but hopefully I’ll be able to carry that confidence over in a new environment, which I know is full of a great bunch of players and staff.
“I already know a few of the players – I played with Yusuf [Aydin] at Wakey and a few of the younger lads have been at York for short spells. I’m really looking forward to it now.”
Meanwhile, Hull FC Director of Rugby Gareth Ellis also highlighted Bailey’s versatility, with the player being the third confirmed new signing by the club after Sam Lisone and Jake Arthur. However, as previously reported by Hull Live, they have also signed St Helens duo James Bell and Joe Batchelor, Wigan’s Harvie Hill, and Goole Vikings’ Joe Phillips for 2026.
“I think this is a great piece of business for both parties,” Ellis added. “It’s a great chance for Connor to take his game to the next level at Super League, and we are getting our hands on one of the Championship’s best forwards.
“Connor is a really enthusiastic individual and I am confident he will be a fantastic addition to our squad for 2026. His versatility will be a key asset for us, as he is able to cover second-row, halfback, loose forward and centre.
“We’re really looking forward to welcoming Connor to the club in 2026 and we’d like to wish him all the best for the remainder of his time with York Knights as they go in search of more silverware this year.”