University of Kentucky Fires Head Coach Mark Stoops

Lexington, Kentucky, December 2, 2025

The University of Kentucky has decided to part ways with head football coach Mark Stoops after 13 seasons. Stoops, known as the program’s all-time winningest coach, leaves with an overall record of 82-80. The decision comes on the heels of recent disappointing performances, notably a 41-0 loss to rival Louisville, which prompted the university to seek a new direction for the football program. Stoops was under contract through 2031 but the university is obligated to pay a buyout of approximately $37.7 million, with a revised payment plan agreed upon.

Lexington, Kentucky – University of Kentucky Fires Head Football Coach Mark Stoops After 13 Seasons

LEXINGTON, Ky. – The University of Kentucky has dismissed head football coach Mark Stoops after 13 seasons, concluding his tenure as the program’s all-time winningest coach with an overall record of 82-80. Stoops, 58, guided the Wildcats to two 10-win seasons and Citrus Bowl victories in 2018 and 2021. However, recent performance issues, including a 41-0 loss to rival Louisville, led to the decision to part ways.

Recent Performance and Decision to Part Ways

Under Stoops’ leadership, Kentucky achieved significant milestones, such as eight consecutive bowl appearances from 2016 to 2023. Despite these successes, the team faced challenges in recent seasons, finishing 4-8 in 2024 and 5-7 in 2025. The decisive 41-0 defeat to Louisville in the season finale was a contributing factor to the university’s decision to seek a new direction for the football program.

Financial Implications and Buyout Agreement

Stoops was under contract through June 2031, with an annual salary of $9 million. The university was obligated to pay a buyout of approximately $37.7 million, representing 75% of the remaining salary on his contract. Reports indicate that Stoops and the University of Kentucky have agreed to a revised payment schedule for the buyout, facilitating a smoother transition.

University’s Commitment to Future Success

Following the dismissal, Athletic Director Mitch Barnhart emphasized the university’s commitment to building a championship program. Barnhart stated that the school would continue to invest in recruiting an elite head coach, players, and support staff, including fully funding revenue-sharing and NIL opportunities, providing state-of-the-art facilities, and ensuring student-athletes have every resource to thrive.

Student Reactions and Community Response

The decision to part ways with Stoops has elicited varied reactions from the University of Kentucky community. Some students expressed understanding, citing the team’s recent performance as a factor in the decision. Others reflected on Stoops’ contributions to the program, acknowledging both the successes and challenges during his tenure.

Background on Mark Stoops’ Tenure

Mark Stoops was hired as the head coach of the Kentucky Wildcats in 2013, marking his first head coaching role after serving as Florida State’s defensive coordinator. Over his 13-year tenure, Stoops led the Wildcats to multiple bowl games and achieved a Top 10 ranking in The Associated Press Top 25. Despite recent struggles, including back-to-back losing seasons, Stoops remains a significant figure in the program’s history.

Next Steps for the Program

The University of Kentucky has initiated a national search for a new head coach to lead the football program. The goal is to identify a leader who can build upon the program’s foundation and guide the team to future success. The university’s commitment to investing in the program’s resources and facilities underscores its dedication to achieving excellence in college football.

FAQ

FAQ Schema

{
  "@context": "https://schema.org",
  "@type": "FAQPage",
  "mainEntity": [
    {
      "@type": "Question",
      "name": "Who is Mark Stoops?",
      "acceptedAnswer": {
        "@type": "Answer",
        "text": "Mark Stoops was the head football coach at the University of Kentucky for 13 seasons, making him the program's all-time winningest coach with an overall record of 82-80. He led the Wildcats to two 10-win seasons and Citrus Bowl victories in 2018 and 2021."
      }
    },
    {
      "@type": "Question",
      "name": "Why was Mark Stoops dismissed?",
      "acceptedAnswer": {
        "@type": "Answer",
        "text": "Despite his earlier successes, the University of Kentucky decided to part ways with Mark Stoops following back-to-back losing seasons, including a 41-0 loss to rival Louisville in the 2025 season finale, which led to the decision to seek a new direction for the football program."
      }
    },
    {
      "@type": "Question",
      "name": "What is the financial impact of Stoops' dismissal?",
      "acceptedAnswer": {
        "@type": "Answer",
        "text": "Stoops was under contract through June 2031, with an annual salary of $9 million. The university was obligated to pay a buyout of approximately $37.7 million, representing 75% of the remaining salary on his contract. Reports indicate that Stoops and the University of Kentucky have agreed to a revised payment schedule for the buyout, facilitating a smoother transition."
      }
    },
    {
      "@type": "Question",
      "name": "What is the University of Kentucky's plan moving forward?",
      "acceptedAnswer": {
        "@type": "Answer",
        "text": "The university has initiated a national search for a new head coach to lead the football program. The goal is to identify a leader who can build upon the program's foundation and guide the team to future success. The university's commitment to investing in the program's resources and facilities underscores its dedication to achieving excellence in college football."
      }
    }
  ]
}

Key Features

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Mark Stoops Commits to Kentucky Football Despite Setback
Lexington Man Arrested for Assaulting Woman on Bond
Jamie Vaught Hosts Book Signing at Middlesboro Library
University of Kentucky Partners with Microsoft to Enhance AI Use
Former UK Football Player Arrested for Alleged Stabbing Incident
Man Injured in Second Lexington Shooting Near Tates Creek Campus
Midway University Names Business School After James C. Bowling
Sports Events in Lexington, KY This November
University of Kentucky Police Department Launches Annual Toy Drive
University of Kentucky Partners with Lockheed Martin and Turner Construction

Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON KY STAFF

The LEXINGTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELexingtonKY.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Lexington, Fayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Woodland Art Fair, Crave Food and Music Festival, and Railbird Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like Commerce Lexington and Blue Grass Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in education, manufacturing, and technology that power the local economy such as University of Kentucky, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, and Lexmark. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBowlingGreen.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.