LEXINGTON, Ky. (LEX 18) — The University of Kentucky is boosting the pay for head football coach Mark Stoops by $500,000 per year, a vote of confidence ahead of the 2019 season's first game.
“Mark has led our program to outstanding on-field results these last six seasons, culminating in a historic 2018, as well as success in recruiting and player development," Athletic Director Mitch Barnhart said in a statement.
"Just as importantly, he shares our commitment to the growth of our student-athletes and to building Kentucky football into a championship program. We are pleased to acknowledge that success and that shared commitment."
Stoops contract length is unchanged, ending June 30, 2025. But he will be paid $500,000 more annually.
However, the changes also remove a $250,000 incentive for winning a seventh and eighth game, effectively granting Stoops that money and pushing that incentive to seasons of nine wins or better.
The changes also boosts the amount of money UK would pay to buy out Stoops' contract, increasing on a sliding scale depending on the number of years left on the contract.
Stoops also will be given 10 hours of "private aircraft use for personal travel each year," according to officials.
