Trending Now - Kentucky's Athletic Director Mitch Barnhart Steps Down, New Role Ahead

WHO:

Mitch Barnhart, Athletic Director at the University of Kentucky (UK)

Eli Capilouto, President of the University of Kentucky

Barnhart, 66 years old

Greg Byrne, Alabama Director of Athletics

Mark Coyle, Minnesota Director of Athletics

Marc Hill, Kentucky Deputy Athletics Director

Rob Mullens, Oregon Athletic Director

Martin Newton, Samford Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics

DeWayne Peevy, DePaul Director of Athletics

Scott Stricklin, Florida Athletic Director

WHAT:

Mitch Barnhart will retire as UK’s Athletic Director in June 2026.

Barnhart will take on a new role as the first executive-in-residence of the UK Sport and Workforce Initiative.

Barnhart has served as UK’s Athletic Director for nearly 24 years, since 2002.

Under Barnhart, Kentucky won six NCAA championships, including men's basketball in 2012.

Capilouto stated, “We will not replace Mitch Barnhart,” emphasizing the continuation of his legacy.

Barnhart expressed gratitude for the new opportunity, stating, “I’m super appreciative of this opportunity. My love for this place is overflowing.”

WHERE:

University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky

Barnhart previously served as Athletic Director at Oregon State from 1998 to 2002.

WHEN:

Barnhart's retirement is set for June 2026.

Barnhart was named Kentucky's 10th Athletic Director in 2002.

Capilouto announced Barnhart's retirement on Tuesday, March 1, 2026.

WHY:

The transition is part of a broader change in college athletics, as stated by Capilouto.

Barnhart’s new role aims to address the evolving needs of intercollegiate sports and workforce development.

HOW:

Capilouto will conduct a “listening tour” to gather input on the future of UK Athletics.

Barnhart will remain involved with the program in a new capacity, focusing on the UK Sport and Workforce Initiative.

Mitch Barnhart, the Athletic Director at the University of Kentucky, will retire in June 2026 after nearly 24 years in the role, during which he led the Wildcats to six NCAA championships, including a men's basketball title in 2012. Following his retirement, Barnhart will become the first executive-in-residence of the UK Sport and Workforce Initiative, a move aimed at addressing the evolving needs of intercollegiate sports. University President Eli Capilouto announced this transition on Tuesday, emphasizing that they will not replace Barnhart, as his legacy will continue to shape the future of UK Athletics.