(BCSNN) — Well, at least there is some good news for Badger Football fans out there. It looks like Wisconsin head coach Luke Fickell has declined to receive a customary one‑year contract extension from the university’s athletic board, choosing instead to focus on improving results in 2026. Athletic director Chris McIntosh confirmed Wednesday that the extension was withheld at Fickell’s request.

The university typically awards annual extensions to maintain the original contract length. Fickell received such extensions in 2023 and 2024, and his deal currently runs through March 2032.

Fickell is 17–21 through two seasons, marking Wisconsin’s first back‑to‑back losing campaigns since 1991–92. McIntosh said he respected the coach’s decision. “Luke is completely focused on a successful 2026 campaign,” McIntosh said. “He holds himself to the highest standards and is committed to meeting and exceeding expectations.”

McIntosh hired Fickell in late 2022 on a seven‑year contract and reiterated in November that the coach would return in 2026 despite a six‑game losing streak that included consecutive home shutouts against Iowa and Ohio State.

At that time, McIntosh announced increased investment in infrastructure, staff and roster development. He reaffirmed that commitment Wednesday, noting that Fickell “continues to have our full support” and that the program is aligned with campus leadership in its long‑term goals.

Wisconsin’s athletic board approved one‑year extensions for volleyball coach Kelly Sheffield and soccer coaches Paula Wilkins and Neil Jones, keeping their contracts at five years. So what's the good news in all of this? Maybe the Badgers will have a new head coach next season. Fans can always hope.