Hull FC sign Sam Lisone for 2026

Hull FC have revealed the signing of powerhouse forward Sam Lisone for the 2026 Betfred Super League campaign.

The 31-year old New Zealand born prop joins the club from Leeds Rhinos, signing a two-year deal with John Cartwright’s side, keeping him at the MKM Stadium until at least the end of the 2027 season.

The former New Zealand Warriors and Gold Coast Titans forward, who also has international caps for Samoa under his belt, becomes the Airlie Birds first new recruit ahead of the 2026 season.

With over 200 senior appearances under his belt, including becoming a mainstay in the Rhinos side since arriving in Super League at the start of the 2023 season, Lisone adds another dimension of size and power amongst the FC pack for the next two years.

At AMT Headingley, he has established a reputation as one of the top flight’s most devastating ball carriers; although he is not renowned for his try-scoring exploits, 2025 has already been the most fruitful campaign of Lisone’s career to date, with the heavyweight forward getting over for seven tries in all competitions so far this season, emulating the form of his former Gold Coast team mate, Herman Ese’ese.

A fan favourite amongst the Headingley faithful, Lisone heads to West Hull where he will line-up alongside the likes of fellow forward Ese’ese, who also put pen to paper on a long-term contract earlier this season signing until at least the end of the 2029 campaign.

Speaking on the decision to join the Black & Whites, Lisone said: “I’ve spoken to Herman (Ese’ese) quite a bit about the move and John Cartwright told me how much he wanted me to come to the club over the phone.

“I’ve always enjoyed coming over to Hull to play. The FC fans are always making loads of noise and I can’t wait for that.

“For me, I’m just focused on playing my best footy for the rest of the year for Leeds. Hopefully I’ll be able to carry on my form for Hull FC next year.”

Hull FC’s Director of Rugby, Gareth Ellis, said: “We are absolutely delighted to add Sam to our ranks for 2026 – he is our first addition for next season, and a key piece of recruitment for the club for the next two seasons.

“Sam will not only bring great size, power and skill to our ranks – he’s also a brilliant character and exactly the sort of individual we’re keen to add to our ranks; he will undoubtedly become one of our leadership figures, and lead from the front with his actions both on and off the field.

“I know he is excited for a new challenge, and will relish the chance to play in front of the Faithful, who I’m sure will quickly take him to their heart.”