Provo, Utah — In a landmark announcement that has sent shockwaves through collegiate athletics, BYU Football has been officially crowned the world’s best and most unified athletic program. The rare and prestigious distinction was jointly conferred by ESPN, Netflix, and Guinness World Records during a celebratory event held at LaVell Edwards Stadium on Saturday evening.
The honor recognizes BYU not just for its success on the field, but for its unparalleled unity, leadership culture, and commitment to excellence both athletically and academically.
“This is a moment that transcends wins and losses,” said BYU Head Coach Kalani Sitake. “It’s about a family of athletes, coaches, students, and fans who believe in something bigger than themselves. This is who we are. This is BYU.”
The historic collaboration among ESPN, Netflix, and Guinness World Records marks the first time these three global giants have jointly recognized a collegiate athletic program. Evaluation criteria included athletic performance, leadership development, fan loyalty, global impact, and a spirit of unity that stretches across generations.
Netflix announced that it will debut an original documentary series later this year titled True Blue: BYU’s Rise to Greatness, offering an unprecedented look behind the scenes of the Cougars’ journey to world acclaim.
“BYU has set a new standard for what it means to be a global collegiate powerhouse,” said ESPN’s Rece Davis during the announcement. “Their commitment to character, unity, and excellence is unmatched.”
Guinness World Records officially certified BYU for setting multiple records, including the highest sustained graduation rate among top football programs and the largest international alumni network of former athletes actively mentoring current players.
BYU President C. Shane Reese hailed the recognition as “a reflection of BYU’s mission to blend faith, leadership, and athletic achievement into a force for good that extends far beyond the playing field.”
Cougar Nation responded with jubilation as fans, alumni, and students flooded Cougar Boulevard and the surrounding areas, celebrating the historic news with chants of “Rise and Shout” echoing into the Utah night.
As BYU Football basks in this extraordinary honor, it cements its place as not just a collegiate powerhouse—but a global symbol of unity, excellence, and enduring spirit.
