Michigan athletic director Warde Manuel stepping down at end of year

Key Points:

• Michigan athletic director Warde Manuel is stepping down at the end of 2025, following an independent investigation that revealed weaknesses in accountability and oversight within the athletic department, particularly related to the handling of fired head coach Sherrone Moore's misconduct.
• The Jenner & Block investigation praised Manuel's commitment to student-athletes but criticized his delayed response to wrongdoing by athletic department employees; Manuel will remain as a special advisor to help implement recommended reforms.
• Manuel's departure comes less than two years after signing a five-year contract extension worth nearly $2.4 million annually, with expectations of a negotiated buyout due to his early exit.
• Michigan athletics has faced numerous scandals in recent years, including NCAA investigations resulting in sanctions, coaching suspensions, and legal issues involving staff members, contributing to a tumultuous environment during Manuel’s tenure.
• University president Domenico Grasso announced a search for a new athletic director, which will likely be conducted by the incoming university president, as Michigan seeks to improve oversight and restore stability in its athletic programs.