Bell to join the Black & Whites in 2026

Hull FC have announced that James Bell has made the switch from St Helens to the MKM Stadium, joining the club on a three-year deal.

The 31-year-old Scotland international has put pen to paper with the Black & Whites, a contract that will see Bell remain a Hull FC player until at least the end of the 2028 season.

He joins Joe Batchelor in swapping the Red V of St Helens to the Black & White of Hull FC ahead of the 2026 season, offering his ball-playing services in the pack.

Not only is he key to unlocking defences with his ball-handling skills, but aggressive, high-energy defence is a key asset to his game.

Bell started out at New Zealand Warriors in 2017, but made the switch to the Northern Hemisphere when he signed for Toulouse Olympique in 2019.

He was signed by Leigh Leopards in 2021 when the club returned to Super League, but his time at Leigh Sports Village was brief, as he moved to St Helens ahead of the 2022 campaign.

Saints has become Bell’s home over the last four seasons, scoring nine tries in 81 appearances, as well as winning a Grand Final and a World Club Challenge bout with Penrith Panthers along the way, but now the opportunity has arisen for the New Zealand born forward to take up a new challenge.

Speaking to hullfc.com for the first time, Bell said: “I’m really excited to get involved, but most importantly for me, I’m super excited to earn the respect and trust of my new team mates next year.

“My game is all about energy and experience. But there’s still plenty of room for me to keep learning from John Cartwright, as well as playing with somebody as skilful as John Asiata.

“I grew up playing with and against Sam Lisone, Herman Ese’ese and Ligi Sao. So I know a few of the boys over at Hull, but I can’t wait to get stuck in and meet all of the other boys to start building those relationships.

“As I said earlier, my intention is to come over and earn the respect from everybody in the Hull FC family. That’s not just the players and coaches, but also the staff at the club and the fans in the stands.”

Hull FC Director of Rugby, Gareth Ellis, also said: “James is a fantastic addition for us and he is somebody who I believe will serve our club with great distinction.

“I know that leaving St Helens was a decision that James didn’t take lightly, but at the same time, he and his family are really excited for a new chapter in their lives in Hull, and we welcome them with open arms.

“His ball-playing capabilities give us another option in the loose forward ranks, and his versatility will allow him to support others in the pack.”