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- calendar_today October 29, 2026
UCF Receives $100,000 Fine Following Chants at Football Game
The University of Central Florida (UCF) has been fined $100,000 by the Big 12 Conference after discriminatory chants were heard during a football game against Brigham Young University (BYU) over the weekend. The league announced the penalty on October 28, 2026, responding to unacceptable fan behavior in the stadium.
Incident Details: Discriminatory Chants Target BYU
According to a release from league officials, chants erupted during Saturday’s football game at UCF and were directed at BYU. While the official statement did not specify the exact language used, attendees—including News 6 reporters—heard chants such as “(Expletive) the Mormons” from sections of the crowd.
Immediate Actions and Conduct Policies Enforced
The Big 12 Conference recognized that UCF followed pregame protocols and took immediate steps during the game, including removing some individuals responsible for the chants. However, the league emphasized that discriminatory behavior has no place in the conference and must be met with appropriate consequences.
Big 12 Updates Athletic Conduct Policy
In response to the incident, the Big 12 Conference announced enhancements to its athletic conduct policy designed to address similar events at future athletic competitions. The updated policy specifies that:
- A confirmed first incident of discriminatory conduct during a game results in an automatic minimum $100,000 fine for the institution.
- The first incident is followed by a formal warning, allowing institutions to address the behavior and prevent further incidents.
- A second confirmed incident during the same game triggers an in-game competitive penalty (such as a 15-yard unsportsmanlike penalty in football or a two-shot technical foul in basketball), and may also result in an additional $500,000 fine.
- Individuals ejected for discriminatory conduct are prohibited from attending any athletic events for the remainder of the academic year and remain subject to university conduct policies.
The conference reiterated its commitment to sportsmanship rules, event conduct standards, and ensuring student athlete respect at all games.
UCF's Response and Conference Statement
UCF officials responded to the conference’s decision by stating, “After becoming aware of the conference’s decision, we will be reviewing our options.”
The Big 12 concluded its announcement by asserting, “Discriminatory conduct will not be tolerated, and the Conference will continue working with its member institutions to prevent such behavior and ensure meaningful consequences when incidents occur.”
Ongoing Commitment to Respectful Fan Behavior
The Big 12 Conference’s actions underscore a broader commitment to respectful fan behavior and integrity at athletic events. As universities implement the updated policies, focus will remain on fostering a positive environment for all participants, including fans, student-athletes, and coaches.
Source: clickorlando.com.
