Gus Malzahn Releases A Statement On His Retirement Decision
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One of college football‘s coaching veteran’s has decided to call it a career after more than three decades on the sideline.
On Monday, longtime HC Gus Malzahn announced his retirement from CFB. He last coached with the UCF Knights from 2021-2024.
In a lengthy statement shared to his social media accounts, Malzahn thanked his wife, family and everyone he met and worked with along the way while also leaning on his faith to when it comes to his next calling.
Gus Malzahn: ‘Time to step away from coaching’
“After 35 years (15 high school, 20 college), I’m grateful for the unbelievable journey God has allowed me to walk,” Malzahn began. “It is time for me to step away from coaching. There are so many people to thank, and it starts with my beautiful wife, Kristi. We’ve done this thing together and any success I’ve had on the field, you deserve just as much credit as me. To my daughters, Kylie and Kenzie: thank you for the many sacrifices each of you made to allow me to live out my dream.”
“Thank you to the administrators throughout my career that gave me incredible opportunities along with the coaches I’ve been blessed to work side by side with over the years, many of whom are lifelong friends,” Malzahn continued. “Lastly, I would like to thank all my former players. It’s been the joy of a lifetime to coach you. I’m proud of the many accomplishments and wins we had on the field. But what has brought me the most joy is seeing the husbands and fathers so many of you have become.”
“Always remember to use your influence in a positive way. As I look ahead to this next season of my life, I am excited to spend more time with my family and focus on what the Lord is calling me to do next.”
— Coach Gus Malzahn (@CoachGusMalzahn) February 2, 2026
Gus Malzahn’s career record, accomplishments
Malzahn began his coaching career at Hughes High School in Arkansas back in 1991 and took a handful of other HS jobs before making the jump to the college ranks.
From there he worked his way up from an assistant with the Razorbacks, Tulsa and Auburn before landing a head job at Arkansas State, where he was able to parlay that success into an eight-season run with the Tigers — leading them to a national championship appearance in his first year thanks to his innovative offensive schemes.
Malzahn retires with a 105-62 record that included five Top 25 finishes, two double-digit win seasons and three bowl wins. After leaving Auburn for UCF, he briefly served as the OC at Florida State under Mike Norvell where he attempted to revive the Seminoles offense following a disastrous 2-10 season.
This story was originally published by The Spun on Feb 2, 2026, where it first appeared in the College Football section. Add The Spun as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
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