Carolina Athletics Poised for Future Growth as UNC Names Steve Newmark New Athletic Director, Marking the Succession from Bubba Cunningham in 2026
In a landmark decision that signals both continuity and innovation, the University of North Carolina (UNC) has officially announced Steve Newmark as the new Athletic Director (AD), set to succeed the long-serving Bubba Cunningham in the summer of 2026. This leadership transition marks a pivotal moment for Carolina Athletics, as the program prepares to build on decades of success while adapting to the rapidly evolving landscape of collegiate sports.
Bubba Cunningham’s tenure as UNC’s Athletic Director, beginning in 2011, has been characterized by remarkable achievements both on and off the field. Under his guidance, the Tar Heels have amassed an impressive 24 national team championships and have consistently ranked among the top programs in the prestigious Learfield Directors’ Cup, an award recognizing overall athletic excellence. Beyond athletic success, Cunningham has emphasized academic achievement, with UNC student-athletes maintaining GPAs above 3.0 for over a dozen consecutive semesters and earning thousands of ACC Academic Honor Roll entries.
However, the changing dynamics of college athletics — including the introduction of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) policies, evolving NCAA regulations, and growing commercial opportunities — demand a fresh approach to athletic administration. Recognizing these shifts, UNC has carefully crafted a succession plan to ensure smooth leadership continuity and future-ready innovation.
Steve Newmark, a Chapel Hill native with a wealth of experience in sports business, emerges as the ideal candidate to lead UNC Athletics into this new era. Currently serving as the president of RFK Racing, a prominent NASCAR team, Newmark brings over 15 years of expertise in commercial partnerships, marketing strategies, and revenue generation. His background as a lawyer and his work with major athletic conferences such as the NCAA, SEC, and Conference USA provide him with a unique perspective on navigating the complex regulatory and commercial environment in college sports.
Beginning August 15, 2025, Newmark will take on the role of Executive Associate Athletic Director, focusing initially on enhancing revenue streams for flagship programs like football and basketball. This transition period will allow him to integrate deeply with the department’s operations, working alongside Cunningham, who will shift into a Senior Advisor role, ensuring that institutional knowledge and legacy continue to inform decision-making.
The appointment of Newmark signals a strategic emphasis on expanding Carolina’s commercial and financial footprint. With new revenue-sharing models related to NIL and federal settlements promising millions in athlete benefits, maximizing these opportunities is critical. Newmark’s proven track record in sports business positions him to lead innovative initiatives that encompass sponsorship growth, media rights expansion, and enhanced fan engagement experiences, all vital for maintaining UNC’s competitive edge.
Moreover, the transition highlights UNC’s commitment to student-athlete welfare and academic excellence, continuing a tradition that Cunningham established. Investments in facilities, scholarships, and academic support programs are expected to grow, ensuring Carolina’s teams remain nationally competitive and its student-athletes thrive both athletically and academically.
In summary, the upcoming leadership change at UNC Athletics represents more than a simple succession. It embodies a strategic evolution aimed at securing Carolina’s place at the forefront of college sports amid unprecedented change. With Steve Newmark’s commercial acumen paired with Bubba Cunningham’s enduring legacy, UNC is well-positioned for sustained growth, innovation, and excellence in the years ahead.
