Warde Manuel will step down as the University of Michigan’s athletic director at the end of 2026. The university and Manuel have agreed to a buyout of the remaining years on his contract.
Manuel has served in the role since January 2016. He previously worked in Michigan’s athletic department and served as athletic director at the University of Connecticut and the University at Buffalo. He is a Michigan alumnus who played football under coach Bo Schembechler and competed on the track team.
During his time as athletic director, the Wolverines won national championships in football in 2023, men’s basketball in 2026, and men’s and women’s gymnastics. The department oversees 29 varsity sports with hundreds of student-athletes and staff members. Manuel also received the John L. Toner Award in 2024 for his work in college athletics.
The decision follows investigations into the athletic department. One investigation examined former football coach Sherrone Moore’s relationship with a staff member. Moore was fired after findings of misconduct. The university later expanded the review to include the overall culture, conduct, and procedures in the athletic department. A law firm conducted the work at a cost of about $12 million.
Manuel had earlier stated there were no plans for him to leave his position in the near future. The agreement to step down comes after those statements and the completion of related reviews. The university described the move as the end of his decade long run as athletic director.
Manuel’s contract had been extended in 2024 through June 2030. The buyout allows for his departure at the end of this calendar year. The university has not named a successor at this time.