Bill Belichick is set to report to a new boss starting in 2026, as North Carolina’s Athletic Director Bubba Cunningham plans to step down next summer. The university made the announcement via Sports Business Journal, signaling a major shift in leadership within the Tar Heels athletic department.
Cunningham will be succeeded by Steve Newmark, the current President of RFK Racing. Newmark is set to begin his new role this month as Executive Associate A.D., reporting to Cunningham during the transition. His primary focus will be increasing revenue streams, particularly for the football program and the women’s basketball team.
Belichick Era Begins as UNC Athletic Director Bubba Cunningham Steps Down in 2026 ShiftLeadership Change Sparks Speculation Over Belichick’s Influence and UNC’s Athletic Future
This leadership shakeup raises questions about internal dynamics, especially regarding Cunningham’s rumored hesitancy to bring in Belichick as head football coach. Speculation has emerged about whether Belichick influenced the leadership change, given his current influence and financial power within the program.
Regardless of who orchestrated the transition, it marks a significant shift in the power structure at UNC. With Newmark set to take over, both the overall direction of North Carolina athletics and the specific leadership of the football program under Belichick will likely be impacted.
