University of Oregon officials are apologizing for “despicable chants” directed at BYU fans and their religion in the Ducks’ 41-20 win over the Cougars Saturday at Autzen Stadium.
A video from a fan in the stands dropped on social media featuring some Oregon fans chanting “F–k the Mormons” during the game.
Real classy chants from Oregon fans and Students. Why is it ok to chant this about members of this specific religion? @oregonfootball @OregonGovBrown @Oregonian @uoregon @CNN @espn @FOXSports @CBSNews @NBCNews @FoxNews pic.twitter.com/ukhdP1hK7x
— John Hopkins (@JohnHopkins2022) September 17, 2022
The chants were clearly heard several times that night on ESPN’s national broadcast of the game.
The outrage was so heavy that even Utah Governor Spencer Cox called the fans out for their “religious bigotry.”
Religious bigotry alive and celebrated in Oregon. https://t.co/l8BdsSJWu2
— Spencer Cox (@SpencerJCox) September 18, 2022
The Oregon Pit Crew, Oregon’s official student section Twitter account, condemned the behavior and apologized for the chant.
“To all [BYU] fans in attendance at todays game, we would like to apologize for the actions of the students in attendance,” the tweet read. “We do not condone or support any hateful speech directed towards one’s religion and are ashamed of those who participated.”
To all @BYUfootball fans in attendance at todays game we would like to apologize for the actions of the students in attendance. We do not condone or support any hateful speech directed towards one’s religion and are ashamed of those who participated.
— Oregon Pit Crew (@OregonPitCrew) September 18, 2022
The 25th-ranked Ducks defeated the No. 12 Cougars 41-20.