Indiana keeps Curt Cignetti: He signs, $8 million per year; 8-year, $72 million extension through 2032
Indiana University and Head Football Coach Curt Cignetti have finalized a new eight-year contract, which includes an average annual salary of $8 million and an additional $1 million yearly retention bonus. The agreement extends through November 30, 2032.
“Since Coach Cignetti arrived, he has transformed Indiana football into one of college football’s most remarkable success stories, proving IU is a football school too,” said IU President Pamela Whitten. “Coach Cignetti embodies our commitment to excellence in every area. His success has brought well-deserved attention to IU, and we’re thrilled that he and his family will remain part of Hoosier Nation for many years.”
Expressing his gratitude, Cignetti said, “Manette and I are deeply thankful for the commitment, support, and confidence from President Whitten and Athletic Director Scott Dolson. We love Bloomington and appreciate the warm welcome from the IU community. I’m excited to continue leading this program and building on the momentum we’ve created for Hoosier football.”
IU Athletic Director Scott Dolson praised Cignetti’s impact, stating, “From the moment we met Coach Cignetti, we knew he was the right person to lead this program. He’s brought a winning culture to IU football, recruited outstanding student-athletes, and united our fanbase. Memorial Stadium has become the place to be on Saturdays, and we’re thrilled he’ll be here for the long haul.”
Cignetti has orchestrated an unprecedented turnaround in his first year, elevating a struggling program to new heights. The Hoosiers, who had won just three Big Ten games in the prior three seasons, are now 10-0—the best start in school history. This marks Indiana’s first-ever 10-win season.
The Hoosiers are currently ranked No. 5 nationally, their highest position since 1967, when they peaked at No. 4. Cignetti’s team has excelled on both offense and defense, ranking second in scoring offense (43.9 points per game), seventh in scoring defense (13.8 points allowed), 16th in total offense (453.2 yards), and third in total defense (255.5 yards).
IU is also No. 5 in the latest College Football Playoff rankings, placing them in strong contention for the inaugural 12-team playoff, with selections to be announced on December 8.
The Hoosiers, currently on their second bye week, will face a major test on November 23 when they travel to Columbus to take on No. 2 Ohio State. The game is set for a noon kickoff.
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