In the heart of the Midwest, Indiana University's football program has seen a resurgence under the leadership of Curt Cignetti, a coach known for his strategic prowess and relentless drive. Cignetti, who took the reins as the 30th head football coach in Indiana football history on November 30, 2023, has already made a significant impact on the program.
Cignetti's journey to Bloomington has been marked by a series of successful stints at various institutions. Before his arrival at Indiana, he served as the head coach at Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) from 2011 to 2016, Elon University from 2017 to 2018, and James Madison University from 2019 to 2023. His coaching career spans over a decade, during which he has amassed a career record of 67-26.
In his first year at Indiana, Cignetti engineered one of the best first-year turnarounds in FBS history. The Hoosiers achieved a program-record for wins in a season with 11 victories and secured 8 Big Ten victories, highlight his first season in Bloomington.
Cignetti’s impact extends beyond the field. On January 11, 2026, it was announced that he had agreed to an eight-year contract extension with an average annual salary of $11.6 million, ensuring his leadership through November 30, 2033. This deal underscores the university's confidence in his ability to continue transforming the program.
Behind every successful coach is a supportive family, and Cignetti is no exception. His wife, Manette Cignetti, has been a steadfast supporter throughout his career. No one was prouder of Curt Cignetti when he took over as the head football coach of the Indiana University Hoosiers in November 2023 than his wife. While details about their family life remain relatively private, it is clear that Manette plays a crucial role in keeping Cignetti grounded and focused on his goals.
Cignetti's coaching philosophy is as intense as it is effective. Players who have worked with him often describe him as someone who is never fully satisfied, a trait that drives him to push his team to new heights. This relentless pursuit of excellence is evident in the program's recent successes and the high expectations set for future seasons. Despite his stern demeanor, Cignetti's dedication to his players and the program is unquestionable, making him a respected figure within the college football community.
As Indiana University's football coach, Cignetti has brought a new energy and strategic vision to the Hoosiers. With his eight-year contract extension, the university has shown its commitment to his leadership, setting the stage for continued success on and off the field. As the program continues to grow under his guidance, one thing is clear: Curt Cignetti is a coach who is truly making his mark on the IU football legacy.
