UPDATE: Florida Gators athletic director Scott Stricklin has just secured a significant raise, bringing his annual salary to over $2 million after signing a three-year contract extension. This deal, announced today, will keep him at the helm until October 2030 and includes a unique semi-retirement role once his term concludes.
The new contract includes a $250,000 increase from his previous salary of $1.8 million, which ran through 2027. Stricklin is eligible to earn up to $2.175 million annually with performance bonuses, further underscoring his value to the Gators’ athletic program.
In a surprising twist, Stricklin will transition to the role of “special assistant to the athletic director” for five years starting in 2030. This arrangement mirrors that of former AD Jeremy Foley, who took on a similar position following his retirement in 2016. The transition plan has been approved by outgoing interim president Kent Fuchs and is expected to be confirmed by the newly appointed interim president Dr. Donald Landry.
Details of the contract reveal that Stricklin will receive $100,000 annually for his semi-retirement duties, alongside basic benefits and access to the athletic association’s aircraft, valued at up to $55,000. He will also benefit from an office space, administrative support, and complimentary seating for various sports events, including football and basketball games.
Stricklin, who took over in 2016, has been pivotal in guiding the Gators through the evolving landscape of college sports, including name, image, and likeness (NIL) regulations. Under his leadership, Florida has secured 13 national titles and 44 conference crowns, enhancing the university’s reputation as a powerhouse in collegiate athletics.
The Gators have made substantial investments in their athletic facilities during Stricklin’s tenure, including an $85 million football facility and a $65 million baseball stadium. Looking ahead, plans are underway for a massive $1 billion renovation of Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, affectionately known as “The Swamp.”
Stricklin’s strategic hires have also been noteworthy, including Billy Napier, the current football coach who led the team to a strong finish in 2024, ranking 13th in the latest AP college football poll. Additionally, he brought on board Todd Golden, the men’s basketball coach who led the Gators to a national championship in his third season.
As the Florida Gators continue to build on their success, the focus now shifts to how Stricklin’s leadership will evolve in this new contract phase. Fans and stakeholders alike are eagerly watching how this transition impacts the future of the Gators’ athletic programs.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story and its implications for the Florida Gators.