Michael McIlorum first words as Hull KR explain signing after deal confirmed

Hull KR have confirmed the signing of Catalans Dragons hooker Michael McIlorum from the 2025 Super League campaign. McIlorum has penned a one-year deal with the Robins after spending seven seasons in the south of France with Catalans.

The former Wigan Warriors man, who will be 37 by the time next season gets underway, has made 370 career appearances over his illustrious career and he’ll be looking to fall back on that experience as he readies himself for a new chapter under Willie Peters. McIlorum will join the club a few weeks after supporters say farewell to Matt Parcell, who has been something of a crowd favourite at Craven Park.

With McIlorum, Bill Leyland and Jez Litten at his disposal, though, Peters will be feeling more than confident about his options at number nine heading into next season. McIlorum has won two Grand Finals during his career and he lifted the Challenge Cup for the third time back in 2018 in the colours of Catalans.

However, he’ll be hoping to add more silverware to his collection this season as Catalans strive for what would be their first Grand Final success.

Speaking after agreeing the switch to east Hull, the England international said: “I’m very happy to be signing with Hull KR next season. The club has been going from strength to strength over the past few years and I want to be a part of that.

“After speaking with Willie on his ethos and the club’s ambitions I saw this as a great fit for me. Hull KR are a club striving for silverware and I’m looking forward to helping them push for success in 2025.”

McIlorum has become the club’s fifth signing for the 2025 campaign, following Jared Waerea-Hargreaves, Tom Davies, Eribe Doro and Leyland, and despite his age, Peters believes he still has plenty to offer at Craven Park next season.

“We’re really happy Micky is joining our club,” he said. “His experience is going to be a valuable asset for us next season. Micky has played at the highest level and won competitions with Wigan and knows what it takes to be a seasoned pro.

“What Micky does when he’s on the field and the way he plays says a lot about what he does off the field away from the game and the work he puts in.

“We have three hookers this year and we want to continue that next year. Micky will also be a great sounding board for Jez Litten and Bill Leyland to help with their ongoing development. I have no doubt that both Jez and Bill will be better players in the long term for having Micky at our club.

“Micky will add a lot of steel to our pack for 2025 alongside Jared Waerea-Hargreaves and we’re excited to have him with us next season.”