Michigan and athletic director Warde Manuel have agreed to a buyout of the final three years of his contract, and he will step down at the end of 2026 after leading the athletic department for a decade, according to multiple reports.
Interim university president Domenico Grasso said Monday that a broad review of the athletic department uncovered “serious concerns” requiring immediate action. Grasso asked Manuel to remain in his position through the end of the year to help implement recommendations from the review.
Manuel said he appreciated the opportunity to assist with the transition and plans to comment further at a later date, according to reports.
During Manuel’s tenure, Michigan’s hockey team made seven NCAA tournament appearances and made it to the Frozen Four in 2018, 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2026. The program captured B1G tournament titles in 2016, 2022, 2023 and 2026.
Last season, the Wolverines were 31-8-1 and lost in the NCAA national semifinals 4-3 in double overtime to eventual national champion Denver.
According to The Associated Press, Monday’s announcement follows investigations into former football coach Sherrone Moore’s relationship with his executive assistant and a broader review of the athletic department. Moore was fired last December after a law firm’s investigation into the relationship.
The university expanded its review, which included interviews with nearly 300 people, more than 20,000 documents and information submitted by more than 90 people through a hotline, the AP reported.