Longtime North Carolina athletic director Bubba Cunningham will step down from his post in 2026 and transition into a newly created senior advisory role, the school announced. Cunningham, who led the Tar Heels since 2011, signed a two-year contract extension through July 2029 that will keep him involved with UNC athletics beyond his tenure as athletic director.
Cunningham will remain in the AD role until summer 2026 before becoming senior advisor to the chancellor and athletic director — a forward-looking position that will focus on strategic university-wide initiatives and athletics planning.
“As part of my last contract extension, I committed to working with University leadership on a succession plan that would positively position Carolina athletics and our 28 teams for the future,” Cunningham said a statement. “I appreciate the opportunity to extend my contract and enhance my role in a way that will allow me to continue to support our outstanding student-athletes, coaches and staff as we transition and navigate the changing athletics landscape. I am excited for the future.”
To help prepare for the transition, UNC also announced the hiring of RFK Racing President Steve Newmark as executive associate athletic director. Newmark begins his role Aug. 15, reporting to Cunningham, and succeeds him as athletic director in 2026.
“Like many passionate Tar Heel fans, avidly following UNC athletics has represented a special and unique bond with my family and friends since childhood, and I recognize the role it serves for the University, alumni, community and broader fanbase,” Newmark said. “I look forward to working with Bubba and the entire Tar Heel Nation to continue to elevate UNC’s status as a premier brand in college sports.”
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Source link : https://www.cbssports.com/college-football/news/unc-ad-bubba-cunningham-to-step-down-in-2026-move-to-advisory-role-successor-hired/
Author : Cody Nagel
Publish date : 2025-07-01 14:02:00
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