Risks

Use of AI also carries risks. Inspired by the Australian Government's AI Ethics Principles, opens in a new tab, the Australian Sports Commission (ASC) A guide for Responsible AI in Sport identified some of the key risks for people in sport to consider, include: ^{1, 4}

• Bias and fairness: If the data used to train AI systems doesn’t reflect the diversity of the sporting community, results may be unfair and disadvantage certain participants or groups.
• Transparency: AI systems can be hard to understand and may not explain clearly how they reach their decisions, making it difficult for people to trust or challenge outcomes.
• Hidden use of AI: When organisations do not disclose that AI is being used, people may not realise that decisions or recommendations are being influenced by AI technology.
• Privacy and security: Sensitive information, such as biometric data, health history, or children and young people’s details, could be exposed or misused if not properly protected.
• Integrity Risks: AI technologies could potentially be misused to cheat or manipulate the system for unfair and unethical physical or financial gains or other malicious use.
• Over-reliance: Too much weight placed on AI may sideline the judgement of coaches or officials, especially with decisions affecting wellbeing and participation.
• Inequitable access: Advanced and costly AI tools may only be available to those organisations or clubs who can afford them. This may create inequity of available technology resources that may ultimately impact performance.
• Safety and wellbeing risks: Constant monitoring or pressure from AI-driven metrics could increase stress, anxiety, or burnout, particularly for young athletes or participants.
• Trust: If people feel AI is being used in ways that are intrusive, unfair, or not well explained, trust in clubs and sport more broadly may be damaged.