Key Points
- Zak Hardaker has signed a contract with York Knights keeping him at the club until the end of the 2028 season, departing from his current stint with Hull FC.
- The 34-year-old utility player and former Man of Steel recipient began his professional career with Featherstone Rovers in 2010 before enjoying major success across multiple elite clubs, including Leeds Rhinos, Castleford Tigers, Wigan Warriors, and Leigh Leopards.
- Hardaker’s illustrious career features three Super League Grand Final victories and two Challenge Cup triumphs with Leeds, alongside international appearances for England and Great Britain, plus an overseas stint with the Penrith Panthers.
- York Knights head coach Mark Applegarth expressed delight at securing Hardaker’s signature, highlighting his exceptional competitiveness, leadership qualities, and the invaluable mentoring he will provide to younger members of the squad.
- Hardaker expressed enthusiasm about the swift nature of the move, noting that discussions with Applegarth regarding the club’s future aspirations convinced him to commit to the 2027 and 2028 campaigns.
York Hull FC (The Leeds Times) September 8, 2026 – Former Leeds Rhinos and Castleford Tigers star Zak Hardaker is set to depart Hull FC to join Super League rivals York Knights on a deal extending until the conclusion of the 2028 season. The 34-year-old player, who originally began his professional career with Featherstone Rovers back in 2010, brings an extensive and decorated resume to his new club, having previously featured for Wigan Warriors, Leigh Leopards, Penrith Panthers, as well as representing England and Great Britain on the international stage. Having spent the past two seasons at Hull FC, Hardaker’s departure marks another significant chapter in a long-standing career that has seen him play at the highest levels of rugby league for over a decade and a half.
Why is Zak Hardaker leaving Hull FC for York Knights?
The move comes after swift negotiations regarding the player’s future and ambitions. Speaking about his decision to secure a deal through to the end of 2028, Zak Hardaker stated that he is “really excited to be joining York for the ‘27 and ‘28 seasons.” He noted that the transfer “has all come to fruition quickly,” explaining that conversations with head coach Mark Applegarth clarified the direction and targets of the organisation. Zak Hardaker added that discussing
“the aspirations of York and where they’re wanting to go and the experience I can bring to the club and the squad made me very excited to join,”
while expressing anticipation for
“joining up with the team after the off-season and seeing what we can achieve together over the next few years.”
What has Mark Applegarth said about Zak Hardaker signing with York Knights?
York Knights head coach Mark Applegarth welcomed the acquisition, emphasising the vast experience and competitive edge the veteran utility back will inject into the squad. Mark Applegarth stated that he is “delighted to have Zak over the line,” pointing out that “he brings with him a wealth of experience.” Describing the player’s tenacity on the pitch, Mark Applegarth noted that “he’s the ultimate competitor” and that
“the best compliment I can give Zak is that every game I’ve watched him or previewed against him, he’s the most competitive player on the field and that’s what we want at York.”
Furthermore, Mark Applegarth highlighted the value of bringing in someone who
“has been there and done it all in a long and illustrious career,” aiming to use those leadership traits to influence the younger members of the team. Mark Applegarth concluded that
“we think he’s going to be great for a few of our younger end, he leads by example and I’m really looking forward to seeing him in a York Knights shirt.”
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Background of the particular development
Zak Hardaker’s career trajectory spans multiple major eras of modern professional rugby league in the United Kingdom. First rising to prominence during his initial tenure with the Leeds Rhinos—where he clinched the prestigious Man of Steel award in 2015—he established himself as one of the most dynamic and versatile backs in the domestic competition. Over his career, he secured three Super League Grand Final titles and lifted the Challenge Cup twice during his time at Headingley.
Beyond West Yorkshire, Hardaker’s career included high-profile spells with Castleford Tigers, a stint in the Australian National Rugby League with the Penrith Panthers, and later trophy-winning periods with Wigan Warriors and Leigh Leopards before his move to Hull FC two seasons ago.
His transition to York Knights represents a strategic acquisition for a ambitious club looking to leverage elite-level experience, winning mentalities, and mentorship to elevate their competitiveness within the professional ranks.
Prediction
The signing of a player of Zak Hardaker’s calibre is poised to significantly impact York Knights by providing immediate tactical maturity, high-intensity leadership, and invaluable mentoring for the club’s emerging talent. For supporters and the wider coaching staff, the presence of a seasoned multi-time Grand Final winner establishes a higher standard of daily professionalism and competitive drive on the training ground.
While veteran acquisitions always carry physical management considerations given the player’s age, Hardaker’s enduring competitiveness suggests he will command a pivotal role on the pitch. This development signals York’s intent to accelerate their growth trajectory, challenging established hierarchies within the competition by blending youthful enthusiasm with proven top-tier expertise.
