Indiana Football Coach Curt Cignetti Secures $8 Million Annual Contract Extension Through 2032

In a significant move to solidify their football program, Indiana University has signed head coach Curt Cignetti to an impressive new contract worth an average of $8 million annually, along with a substantial $1 million annual retention bonus. This eight-year deal extends through the conclusion of the 2032 regular season, reflecting the university's commitment to maintaining its momentum in college football.

Previously, Cignetti was earning a base salary of $4.25 million, which placed him towards the lower end of the Big Ten coaching salary spectrum. With this new contract, he will soar into the ranks of the top five highest-paid coaches in the conference, according to data from USA Today.

Cignetti, who boasts an impressive track record from his time at James Madison where he amassed a remarkable 52-9 record, has orchestrated a remarkable turnaround for the Indiana Hoosiers. Under his leadership, the team is currently enjoying one of its best seasons ever, sitting undefeated at No. 5 in national rankings and setting a new program record by notching 10 victories. The team is projected to have an outstanding 92 percent chance of qualifying for the College Football Playoff, as indicated by models from The Athletic.

In a statement celebrating the new contract, Indiana University President Pamela Whitten praised Cignetti's transformative impact on the program: “Since arriving on campus, coach Cignetti has been the architect of one of college football’s greatest turnarounds and has shown the world that IU is also a football school. The success he has brought to Indiana football is shining a light on all that is amazing about Indiana University. We are excited that coach Cignetti and his wonderful family will be a part of the Hoosier Nation for many years to come.”

Looking ahead, Indiana’s football team is on a bye week before preparing for a pivotal match against No. 2 Ohio State. They're also set for an intense rivalry showdown against Purdue in the regular-season finale.

“I am beyond appreciative for the tremendous commitment, confidence, and support from president Pam Whitten and athletic director Scott Dolson,” Cignetti expressed in a press release. “I look forward to leading this outstanding program and doing my part to continue the momentum for Hoosier football.”

As Cignetti embarks on the next chapter with Indiana, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how the Hoosiers continue to evolve on the national stage. Will Indiana's unprecedented success under Cignetti lead them to even greater heights? Only time will tell!