Colorado Buffs AD Rick George Announces Departure by 2026

UPDATE: In a major shift for Colorado athletics, Rick George has confirmed he will step down as athletic director at the end of the 2025-26 academic year. The announcement, made earlier today, signals a new chapter for the University of Colorado as it prepares for the 2026 football season.

George, who has served in this role since July 17, 2013, will transition to a position as special advisor to the chancellor and director of athletics emeritus. This decision follows extensive discussions with his family and is intended to provide ample time for Chancellor Justin Schwartz to identify George’s successor.

“I have decided it is time for new leadership to guide the department,” George stated in a press release. He emphasized his commitment to supporting the current football team and Coach Prime (Deion Sanders) during this pivotal season.

The timeline for George’s replacement will be announced soon, as the university embarks on a national search for a new athletic director. George, 65, leaves behind a legacy marked by transformational changes, including the successful fundraising of $100 million for the construction of the UCHealth Champions Center, which opened in 2015.

During his tenure, George has navigated challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the recent transition from the Pac-12 Conference to the Big 12 Conference, a significant move set to take effect in 2024. His leadership has seen unprecedented growth in donations, sponsorships, and overall revenue for CU athletics.

Reflecting on his time at Colorado, George expressed gratitude to the CU community, stating, “Thank you to our staff, our coaches, our donors, Buff Nation, and especially our student-athletes for making this the best job in the country.”

Under George’s guidance, CU has prioritized student-athlete well-being, launching initiatives to support mental health and career development. His efforts have resulted in record-breaking academic performances among student-athletes.

George’s departure is a pivotal moment for CU athletics, which now faces the task of finding a leader capable of building on his achievements. As George steps into his new advisory role, he will remain active in enhancing the department’s future initiatives.

This announcement is likely to impact CU’s recruitment strategies and overall athletic direction in the coming months. Stakeholders and fans are eager to see how the university will navigate this transition and continue its upward trajectory in collegiate athletics.

As Colorado prepares for this leadership change, the focus will be on maintaining the momentum George has established while ensuring that CU remains competitive in the ever-evolving landscape of college sports.