Michigan Athletic Director Warde Manuel Will Receive a $7 Million Lump Sum in His Separation Deal
Manuel will get a $7.14 million lump sum and retiree benefits, and a two-year Big Ten non-compete will limit his next job.
- On Monday, July 20, 2026, the University of Michigan announced Athletic Director Warde Manuel will step down at the end of 2026, receiving a $7.14 million buyout as part of his separation agreement.
- His departure follows a months-long culture review by Jenner & Block LLP costing the university more than $12 million, initiated after the dismissal of football coach Sherrone Moore for an "inappropriate relationship" with a staffer.
- The settlement includes a $7,143,346 lump-sum payment within 21 days of resignation, $82,000 for attorney fees, and a $108,000 retirement contribution, while barring Manuel from Big Ten athletic director roles for two years.
- President Domenico Grasso asked Manuel to remain employed through the end of 2026 to implement departmental recommendations, with Manuel stating he is "very proud of all the successes and accomplishments" during his 11-year tenure.
- Manuel retains the right to accept employment outside the Big Ten with no penalty, departing a program marked by national championships and controversies including the 2023 illegal scouting scheme involving former staffer Connor Stalions.
39 Articles
39 Articles
Warde Manuel, a Michigan AD, Will Receive a $7 Million Departure Agreement
According to a document obtained by The Associated Press on Monday, Warde Manuel, the athletic director at Michigan, will get a lump sum payment of $7.14 million as part of his severance agreement with the institution. Manuel will retire at the end of 2026 after the school announced on July 20 that it will buy out the final three years of his contract. After an examination into the athletic department and into the relationship between former foo…
Michigan: Warde Manuel To Receive $7 Million At End Of Term
After announcing last week that Warde Manuel will be stepping down as the Athletic Director of the school, Michigan has made public the buyout which Manuel will receive. On top of the $7 million Manuel will receive in cash benefits, the agreement also shows more benefits which will be paid out after Manuel led the […] The post Michigan: Warde Manuel To Receive $7 Million At End Of Term appeared first on HEAVY.
Associated Press News
Michigan athletic director Warde Manuel will receive a $7 million lump sum in his separation deal
Michigan athletic director Warde Manuel will receive a $7.14 million lump sum as part of his separation agreement with the university.
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 46% of the sources are Center
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
