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Wisconsin Keeps Luke Fickell for 2026 as AD Pledges Major Program Investment

Administrators point to a stepped-up financial commitment as the path to steady a 2-6 team with no league wins.

Oct 18, 2025; Madison, Wisconsin, USA; Wisconsin Badgers head coach Luke Fickell during the game against the Ohio State Buckeyes at Camp Randall Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images/ File Photo
Wisconsin head coach Luke Fickell is shown during the third quarter of their game against Maryland Saturday, September 20, 2025 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
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MADISON, WISCONSIN - NOVEMBER 29: Luke Fickell head coach of the Wisconsin Badgers during the game against the Minnesota Golden Gophers at Camp Randall Stadium on November 29, 2024 in Madison, Wisconsin. (Photo by John Fisher/Getty Images)

Overview

  • Wisconsin athletic director Chris McIntosh informed players Nov. 6 that Luke Fickell will remain head coach beyond this season, pairing the decision with a comprehensive program review.
  • McIntosh and Chancellor Jennifer Mnookin committed to significantly increasing resources for infrastructure, staffing, and player retention and recruiting in the NIL and revenue‑share era.
  • Retaining Fickell avoids an immediate buyout estimated at roughly $25–28 million on a contract that runs through 2031.
  • The Badgers are 2-6 overall and 0-5 in the Big Ten with 11 straight losses to power‑conference opponents, historically poor offensive production, and key injuries including season-ending surgeries for RB Dilin Jones and C Jake Renfro.
  • Officials said the move brings clarity for current players and recruits ahead of the Dec. 3–5 early signing period, even as fan backlash and declining attendance have been reported.