Wisconsin head coach Luke Fickell has been confirmed to return as the head coach of the Badgers for the 2026 season, according to athletic director Chris McIntosh, who made the announcement on Thursday. The news comes after Fickell stepped down from his position in 2022 following a tumultuous tenure marked by controversies and a decline in team performance.
McIntosh expressed confidence in Fickell’s ability to lead the team back to success, stating that his return reflects the university’s commitment to competitive excellence in college football. Fickell’s departure in 2022 was met with mixed reactions, with some fans and analysts praising his efforts to modernize the program while others criticized the team’s performance during his tenure.
The Badgers’ football program has faced significant challenges in recent years, including losing several key players to the NFL and struggling to maintain consistent success on the field. Fickell’s return is seen as a strategic move to stabilize the program and attract top talent, with hopes of rebuilding the team’s competitive edge for the 2026 season.
As the 2026 season approaches, Wisconsin fans are looking forward to seeing Fickell’s plans for the program. The announcement has sparked discussions about the future of college football in the state and the potential for a resurgence in Badgers’ performance under Fickell’s leadership.