Informed consent
Key information for meaningful and transparent consent in sport.
AI systems in sport often use sensitive information such as health data, performance metrics, images or video footage. Poor or ineffective consent practices can create significant risks, such as loss of trust, misuse or unauthorised sharing of data, reputational harm, legal or regulatory breaches, and wellbeing impacts for participants (e.g. over-monitoring leading to excessive stress, anxiety, and/or reduced enjoyment of sport and drop out at any level). 1
Making consent meaningful
Meaningful informed consent in sport requires providing information in plain, accessible language. It should go beyond a simple tick-box, be ongoing, and tailored to the sporting context. For children and young athletes, explanations should be age-appropriate and involve parents or guardians. Consent should be transparent, clearly documented, and participants must know they can withdraw at any time. 1
Key information to provide includes: 1
- What data is being collected (for example, GPS tracking, biometric readings, or video footage for analysis).
- Why the data is being used (such as injury prevention, training support, or scheduling).
- Who will have access to the data (such as coaches, administrators, technology providers, or external partners).
- What the risks are including unintended or secondary uses, such as data being shared with third parties.
- How to opt out or withdraw consent at any time without disadvantage to participation.
