Belichick backs UNC rule compliance as investigation widens
North Carolina says it continues to support Bill Belichick and the football programme after general manager Michael Lombardi resigned during an investigation into conduct within the programme.
Bill Belichick has defended North Carolina’s internal culture as the university investigates conduct within his football programme, saying everyone — including himself — was responsible for “doing things properly”.
“The University continues to support Bill Belichick and the Carolina football programme,” UNC vice chancellor for communications Dean Stoyer said in a statement.
The investigation began after general manager Michael Lombardi was placed on paid administrative leave in late July. Lombardi resigned during the programme’s open week, which followed North Carolina’s 15–10 season-opening win over TCU in Ireland.
ESPN reported that the investigation’s scope had widened, with lawyers contacting staff members, coaches and some coaches’ wives or girlfriends. Witnesses have reportedly been questioned about Lombardi’s role in hiring and firing female and minority staff members.
The Associated Press previously reported that a human resources complaint from a former employee was connected to Lombardi’s leave. UNC has said employees and athletes could not discuss the matter because it involved personnel issues.
Belichick said university leaders had maintained a supportive working relationship with him and would make any necessary corrections. UNC has not publicly detailed the investigation or confirmed the reported allegations, and no clearance of Belichick or the programme has been announced.
