University of Colorado Boulder condemns religious slurs chanted at BYU game

BOULDER, Colorado (ABC4) — Officials at the University of Colorado Boulder are condemning fan behavior after “expletives and religious slurs” were chanted by CU Boulder fans at their football game against Brigham Young University on Saturday.

University Chancellor Justin Schwartz and Athletic Director Rick George released a statement on Sunday “strongly” condemning the use of the chants, writing, “Such behavior is deeply disappointing and does not reflect the values of respect, inclusion and integrity we expect of our campus community.”

Reportedly, during the game on CU Boulder campus, fans could be heard chanting “F*** the Mormons.” BYU won the game 24-21 after trailing 14-0 in the first quarter.

In the statement, Schwartz and George reminded students that attending sporting events at the university is a privilege, and that individuals who engage in abusive behavior or other conduct inconsistent with their values will be held accountable.

“CU Boulder is committed to fostering an environment where all individuals—students, staff, faculty, alumni, opposing fans and other visitors—feel welcome and safe. Discriminatory language and hostile conduct have no place at our athletic events or anywhere on our campus,” the statement continued.

The statement also highlighted the CU Boulder fan code of conduct, which dictates that guests “will enjoy the gameday experience free from disruptive behavior including foul, abusive, obscene, or discriminatory language or gestures.”

A similar incident occurred in February, when University of Arizona fans began an offensive chant at a basketball game against BYU. University of Arizona officials apologized to BYU athletes, coaches, and fans following the incident.

Other incidents of offensive chants against BYU happened in recent years, including in December 2024 at a basketball game against Providence College, in September 2022 at a game against the University of Oregon, and in November 2021 at a football game against the University of Southern California.

Ryan Bittan contributed to this reporting.