Former Leeds Rhinos president Andrew Thirkill and businessman David Hood have entered into an exclusivity period to take over Hull FC.

Current chairman Adam Pearson has owned the club for the past 13 years and will stay on in a consultancy capacity.

Thirkill served as president of the Rhinos from 2018 until last month and is the father of Stephanie Thirkill, whose partner is Hull FC’s director of rugby Richie Myler.

The Black and Whites endured a dismal season in Super League in 2024, winning just three of their 27 matches.

“I will be delighted to hand over the reins to Andrew as the club’s new chairman – his love for the sport of rugby league and passion for success provides a perfect combination for the club to thrive once more under his leadership and guidance,” Pearson said.

“After 13 years of ownership, it has been critically important to me to transfer the club into the right hands, and this event certainly ticks all those boxes.

“This change of ownership heralds a bright future for Hull FC.

“We need all of our supporters to rally together to restore unity and pride in our famous club.”