Former Leeds Rhinos and Castleford Tigers star Zak Hardaker will leave Hull FC at the end of this season to join one of their top-flight rivals.

Hardaker, who was Man of Steel in 2015 during the first of his two spells with Rhinos, has signed a deal with York Knights until the end of 2028. The 34-year-old began his career with Featherstone Rovers in 2010 and has also played for Wigan Warriors and Leigh Leopards, as well as Penrith Panthers, England and Great Britain. He joined Hull two years ago.

“I’m really excited to be joining York for the ‘27 and ‘28 seasons,” Hardaker - who won three Grand Finals and the Challenge Cup twice with Leeds - said. “It has all come to fruition quickly, but speaking to Mash [Knights coach Mark Applegarth] and hearing 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. I’m really looking forward to joining up with the team after the off-season and seeing what we can achieve together over the next few years.”

Zak Hardaker is tackled by Mikolaj Oledzki during Hull FC's win against Leeds Rhinos in March. Picture by Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com.

Applegarth said: “I’m delighted to have Zak over the line. He brings with him a wealth of experience. He’s the ultimate competitor. 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.

“He’s a player that’s been there and done it all in a long and illustrious career. We want those sort of values to reflect into bringing on our York team. 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.”