UCF Athletics Sees Steady Growth in Big 12 Transition

University's athletic department reports increase in revenue and expenses during 2024-25 fiscal year.

Feb. 6, 2026 at 11:47am

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UCF's athletic department saw an increase in revenue and expenses during its 2024-25 fiscal year, as the university continues to navigate the financial complexities of transitioning to the Power Five Big 12 conference. The department reported $108.89 million in total operating revenue, up from $98.16 million the previous year, driven by increases in ticket sales, donations, and conference distribution. Expenses also rose to $103.62 million, largely due to higher costs for team travel, equipment, and game expenses.

Why it matters

UCF's financial performance as it transitions to the Big 12 provides insight into the challenges and opportunities facing mid-major athletic departments looking to elevate their programs to the Power Five level. The university's ability to grow revenue and manage expenses will be crucial as it seeks to establish itself as a competitive force in the new conference.

The details

UCF received a half-share ($18 million) of annual Big 12 revenue for the 2024-25 season, before receiving a full share in 2025-26. The department also saw increases in media rights ($9.7 million) and contributions ($27.9 million), including $23.8 million from football. Expenses rose due to higher costs for team travel ($6 million), coaches' salaries ($19.24 million), and a $10 million debt service payment related to the new Football Campus Project.

  • UCF joined the Big 12 conference in 2023.
  • The 2024-25 fiscal year ran from July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2025.
  • The Roth Tower expansion at FBC Mortgage Stadium is expected to be completed before the start of the 2026 football season.

The players

Terry Mohajir

UCF athletics director, who arrived in 2021 when the department was facing a $27 million deficit.

UCF

The University of Central Florida, a public research university located in Orlando, Florida.

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What’s next

The Roth Tower expansion at FBC Mortgage Stadium is expected to be completed before the start of the 2026 football season, which is expected to help generate approximately $2.4 million in new revenue annually.

The takeaway

UCF's financial performance as it transitions to the Big 12 conference highlights the challenges and opportunities facing mid-major athletic departments looking to elevate their programs to the Power Five level. The university's ability to grow revenue and manage expenses will be crucial as it seeks to establish itself as a competitive force in the new conference.