Michigan pays $12 million to part ways with Warde Manuel

The University of Michigan announced that Warde Manuel will step down as athletic director at the end of the 2026 season. The decision, influenced by various controversies during his tenure, resulted in a cost of approximately $12 million for the university. Manuel's leadership included significant achievements such as hiring successful coaches and overseeing championships, but also faced scrutiny due to incidents involving assistant coaches and allegations of misconduct. The university conducted investigations into these issues, ultimately leading to the decision about his employment. Manuel had served as athletic director since 2016 and leaves a mixed legacy behind.

• 4:18 PMYahoo Sports — It cost Michigan $12 million to get out of the Warde Manuel business