North Carolina will have a new athletic director starting in 2026. Tar Heels AD Bubba Cunningham plans to step down in the summer of that year, according to NBC Sports. Steve Newmark, currently the president of Roush Fenway Keselowski (RFK) Racing, has been named as his successor.
Cunningham, who has led UNC Athletics since 2011, confirmed the planned transition in a school news release.
“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. “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.”
Newmark, a longtime Tar Heel fan, expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity.
“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 with top-tier programs across the board, and with student-athletes who represent North Carolina’s flagship institution with class on and off their respective playing fields. With collegiate athletics undergoing massive changes at all levels, UNC is well positioned to take advantage of the new landscape.”
Cunningham will remain at UNC in an advisory role after stepping down. During his tenure, he oversaw significant developments across the athletic department, including major changes to the football program.
Perhaps Bubba Cunningham’s most headline-grabbing move as athletic director came late in his tenure: hiring legendary NFL coach Bill Belichick to lead the North Carolina football program. Belichick, who won multiple Super Bowls with the New England Patriots, is preparing for his first season in Chapel Hill after the school moved on from longtime head coach Mack Brown.
Cunningham also made a pivotal decision in 2021 when he named Hubert Davis as the successor to Hall of Fame basketball coach Roy Williams. Davis led the Tar Heels to a national championship game appearance in his first season but has yet to secure a title.
Throughout Cunningham’s time at UNC, the Tar Heels have captured multiple national championships across various sports, including the 2017 men’s basketball title under Williams. His tenure has been marked by high-profile hires and consistent competitive success across the athletic department.
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