ANN ARBOR, Mich. – University of Michigan Athletic Director Warde Manuel will step down at the end of 2026 after nearly 11 years leading the Wolverines’ athletic department, following an independent review that cited failures of oversight and accountability at the highest levels of university leadership.
Manuel issued a statement on Monday (July 20) after University President Domenico Grasso announced the leadership change alongside the review’s findings.
“I am very proud of all the successes and accomplishments of our athletic department over the past 11 years.
We have tremendous coaches and professionals who support our outstanding student-athletes every day.”
I am happy President Grasso asked me to stay on to work with him to implement the recommendations for continuous improvement.
I promise everyone I will have more to say about my decision at the appropriate time.”
Forever, Go Blue.”
Warde Manuel
Grasso said Manuel will remain with the university through the end of the year as a special adviser to help implement reforms recommended by the independent investigation.
Review findings
The review, conducted by law firm Jenner & Block, was launched in late 2025 following the firing of former football coach Sherrone Moore.
Investigators examined the department’s culture and procedures and found “interference, poor oversight, and failures of accountability by the highest levels of university leadership,” Grasso said.
“This must change,” Grasso said.
Although investigators did not accuse Manuel of personal misconduct, the report concluded the athletic department failed to respond quickly and effectively to allegations of wrongdoing involving employees.
According to the university, investigators interviewed nearly 300 people, reviewed more than 20,000 records and followed more than 90 leads during the review.
Grasso’s response
Grasso praised Manuel’s contributions while acknowledging the need for change.
“I have the deepest respect for Warde and his countless contributions to Michigan,” Grasso said. “We have significant work ahead to restore Michigan athletics to its standing as a model program, not only on the field, but also off the field.”
Grasso said the university will begin a national search for Michigan’s next athletic director, with additional details expected following this week’s Board of Regents meeting.
Manuel’s tenure
Manuel, a former Michigan Wolverines defensive tackle who played under Hall of Fame coach Bo Schembechler from 1986 to 1989, became the university’s athletic director in January 2016.
He previously served as athletic director at the University at Buffalo and the University of Connecticut.
He signed a five-year contract extension in December 2024.
During his tenure, Michigan captured national championships in football in 2023, men’s basketball in 2026, men’s gymnastics in 2025 and women’s gymnastics in 2021.
Manuel also oversaw major facility improvements and guided the department through significant changes in college athletics, including conference realignment, the implementation of name, image and likeness compensation, and the expansion of the College Football Playoff.
Controversies
His tenure also included several high-profile controversies.
Michigan faced NCAA sanctions stemming from the Connor Stalions sign-stealing investigation, scrutiny over the handling of former football assistant Matt Weiss and his later federal indictment, the university’s response to the Dr. Robert Anderson sexual abuse scandal, and the hiring and eventual firing of Moore.
Watch Grasso’s full announcement below.