Hull have confirmed that coach Shaun McRae will quit at the end of the season to take charge of National Rugby League side South Sydney Rabbitohs. "It is one of the most emotional decisions I have had to make in my life," said the Australian.
"In the end I felt this was an opportunity not to be missed and one I might never get again."
Hull, who lie second in the Super League table, will offer assistant John Kear the chance to succeed McRae.
McRae joined Hull five seasons ago after spells at Gateshead and St Helens, with whom he won the inaugural Super League championship in 1996.
He added: "It has always been a burning desire of mine to coach in the NRL and jobs in what is the world's toughest rugby league competition are at a premium.
"However, this wasn't an easy decision and I have changed my mind a few times.
"In the end I felt this was an opportunity not to be missed and one I might never get again."
Hull chief executive David Plummer said: "We have had talks with John about the possibility of taking over but until we knew exactly where we were we couldn't make him an offer.
"We will be doing that now and hopefully we will come to an agreement and then look to find an assistant.
"We are sad to see Shaun go but we always knew it was possible he would return to Australia one day and he goes with our blessing.
"He has given this club five excellent years' service and nobody can argue that he hasn't been fully committed to the club."
"I am delighted to have Shaun joining us at Souths," said Richardson on the Rabbitohs' official website.
"I am also very happy that Arthur will be continuing his association with the club.
"It will be a fantastic mix of coaching experience and local knowledge with both Shaun and Arthur guiding the NRL side next season."
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We have had talks with John about the possibility of taking over but until we knew exactly where we were we couldn't make him an offer 