Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Sport

What is AI?

AI uses data to predict, recommend, and support decisions. By recognising patterns, learning from information, and adapting, it mimics aspects of human intelligence.

In sport, common types of AI include: ^{1, 3}

• Machine Learning: Systems trained on large amounts of data that improve as more data becomes available. For example, models that predict injury risk based on historical training and injury data.
• Computer Vision: Technology that analyses images or videos, for example, to track techniques or assess skills.
• Natural Language Processing: Tools that work with human language, including translation services or chatbots for customer engagement.
• Generative AI: Systems that create new content, such as personalised training plans, automated match commentary, or synthetic video.
• Agentic AI: An emerging form of AI that may, in future, be able to make autonomous decisions and act independently to achieve complex objectives.

Do’s and don’ts for responsible use

A quick guide to the responsible use of AI in sport. ¹

Do

Keep people first - Use AI to support volunteers, coaches, athletes, fans (i.e. all participants), not replace them.

Be transparent - Let participants know when and how AI is being used.

Protect privacy - Avoid sharing personal or sensitive data with AI tools unless secure and compliant with Australian privacy principles.

Review outputs - Always double-check AI-generated material before publishing or sharing.

Start simple - Begin with easy, low-risk applications like admin support before moving into more sensitive areas.

Promote inclusion - Use AI tools to break down barriers for multicultural communities, Para athletes, and regional clubs.

Don't

Over-rely on AI - Keep human judgement central, especially for coaching, wellbeing, or officiating decisions.

Assume accuracy - AI can produce errors (“hallucinations”) that need correction.

Ignore or imply consent - Make sure participants (and guardians, where relevant) understand how data will be used.

Widen the gap - Be mindful that some clubs or organisations may not have equal access to expensive or complex AI tools.

Forget ethics - Even if it’s easy or convenient, AI use should always align with sport’s core values of fairness, safety, and integrity.

Opportunities and risks

Thoughtfully applied, AI can be a powerful tool in sport, helping to save time, enhance inclusivity, improve safety, and provide innovative insights. At the same time, its use carries potential risks that need to be understood and managed carefully. ^{1, 2}

Common use cases of AI in sport

AI technologies used in sport can be grouped into three key categories: General-purpose AI, Generative AI, and Sport-specific AI. Understanding these can help sporting organisations choose appropriate tools, recognise limitations, and manage associated risks. Below is a non-exhaustive overview of common use cases. ¹

Ethics and governance

To maximise the benefits of AI, it must be used in ways that align with the values, fairness, and integrity of Australian sport. Issues such as data breaches, biased or non-transparent systems, and exclusion can undermine trust in organisations and the broader sporting system. ¹

AI tools should be treated as helpers to lighten workloads and provide insights, not replace human judgement. Knowing when not to use AI is just as important as using it effectively. ¹

Policies, procedures, and supporting structures

Organisations and programs that address AI use in sport and active recreation.

Related topics

• Safeguarding in Sport
• Sport System Sustainability