Iowa Extends Contract of Kirk Ferentz

The University of Iowa has assured head football coach Kirk Ferentz will be roaming the Hawkeye sideline for years to come.

In a press release, Iowa announced they're extending head football coach Kirk Ferentz' contract through the 2026 season. His previous contract extended through the 2020 season. Ferentz will coach Iowa for 28 seasons if he stays on to finish out his new contract. He's currently in his 18th season as Iowa’s head football.

Iowa Athletic Director Gary Barta said in the press release, “I’ve said it many times, I would like Kirk to retire as a Hawkeye, and this contract is a strong statement toward that commitment. Kirk’s dedication to the football program and the University of Iowa has brought national attention and recognition to the Hawkeyes for nearly 20 years. Kirk is one of the top coaches in country. His commitment to winning, graduating student-athletes, and doing things the right way is unmatched by any program or coach. There is strong momentum surrounding the Hawkeye football program. Whether it’s on the field, recruiting, academics, facilities, or with his staff, we’re achieving at a high-level today, are well-positioned for continued success for years to come.”

Coach Ferentz was quoted in the press release this way: “I am pleased and proud to continue as head coach of the University of Iowa football team through 2026. It is a tremendous privilege and responsibility to lead the Iowa football program. I am extraordinarily proud of our program, our players, and our supportive fans. I appreciate the trust and confidence demonstrated by Athletic Director Gary Barta and President Bruce Harreld – and I look forward to continuing our winning tradition. Iowa is home to me, my wife, Mary, and our five children. “We moved a lot during the early years of coaching, but once we arrived in Iowa City - this quickly became our home. We appreciate and value what it is to be an Iowan and an Iowa Hawkeye.”

Ferentz and former Iowa alum Bob Stoops, who coaches at Oklahoma, are the only FBS coaches who've been head coach at the same school since 1999.

[VIA HawkeyeSports]