Unm Athletic Director Fernando Lovo Poised to Join Colorado Buffaloes

Career Transition on the Horizon

Fernando Lovo, the Athletic Director for the University of New Mexico (UNM), is reportedly set to take on a new challenge as he is targeted for the same position at the University of Colorado. According to a report by Yahoo Sports, Lovo’s move comes just a year after his appointment at UNM, raising questions about the stability of the athletics program he has worked hard to build.

Achievements at UNM

During his brief tenure at UNM, which began on December 1, 2024, Lovo has made significant strides. He successfully recruited key coaching talent, including football coach Jason Eck and men’s basketball coach Eric Olen. Under his administration, the athletics department achieved record fundraising and saw UNM ranking as the highest non-power conference FBS school in the 2024-25 Learfield Directors’ Cup standings.

Colorado’s Athletic Director Search

The University of Colorado is in the process of seeking a new athletic director following Rick George’s announcement in November 2025 that he would step down. The Buffaloes, who have struggled with a 3-8 record under head football coach Deion Sanders, are looking to revitalize their athletics department amidst challenges in the Big 12 Conference.

Contract Implications and Financial Considerations

Lovo’s contract with UNM is set to run until November 30, 2029, with a base salary of $400,000, plus various incentives tied to performance. Should he depart before the end of his contract, he could face liquidated damages reaching up to $800,000. This contractual complexity adds another layer to the potential transition, as any move to Colorado would require careful navigation of financial obligations.

Community Reactions and Next Steps

As whispers of Lovo’s expected move circulate, both fans and stakeholders within UNM are eager for clarity. The university’s president, Garnett Stokes, stated that operations are continuing as normal, emphasizing the focus on supporting student-athletes and coaches. However, the community is left to ponder what this leadership change could mean for the future of Lobo athletics.

With Lovo’s impressive track record and the recent successes at UNM, his potential departure could mark a significant turning point for both universities involved.