A recent survey conducted by software development firm Propel Tech reveals growing concerns over the potential for “tech doping” to create significant inequalities in professional sports. Nearly half (48%) of respondents believe that as technology advances rapidly, the practice of using enhanced equipment to gain an advantage over competitors is inevitable.
Tech doping refers to the use of advanced technology, such as performance-enhancing wearables or AI, that gives athletes an unfair edge. Often these technologies are not accessible to all participants, compromising the fairness of competition. Notable examples include Nike’s Alphafly running shoes, banned by World Athletics in 2020 for boosting speed and efficiency, and full-body swimsuits once outlawed by the Olympics.
With 71% of survey participants highlighting concerns about the impact of wearable technology and AI, many fear that the availability of such advancements will exacerbate inequalities in elite competitions like the Olympics and Paralympics. The Paris 2024 Games are already grappling with questions about whether athletes using these technologies will skew the playing field.
“The challenge lies in distinguishing between legitimate, widely accessible advancements and those that cross the line into unfair advantage,” said Andy Brown, founder of Propel Tech and a youth coach at Huddersfield Town A.F.C. “Sports federations and tech developers must collaborate to ensure innovations are transparent, accessible, and regulated fairly.”
The survey consulted 102 professionals from fields including IT, healthcare, and law, who are passionate about watching sports. It revealed that while 38% of respondents are open to certain technological enhancements, they believe clear guidelines are essential. In contrast, 10% were adamant that tech doping undermines sports integrity and should be strictly regulated.
“Technology is already shaping the future of sports,” Brown added. “SportTech, both in devices and software, isn’t going away. It’s crucial to create rules and regulations that ensure these advancements are used fairly and inclusively.”
Not all respondents view wearable technology as harmful. A small but vocal group (5.5%) argued that innovations like AI and advanced wearables could level the playing field, especially in adaptive sports such as the Paralympics, by optimising performance for all athletes. They believe that when applied equitably, SportTech can enhance talent development and overall performance.
However, the study reflects a widespread belief that governing bodies, including the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and International Paralympic Committee (IPC), must continue working to balance innovation with fairness. This includes collaborating with tech developers to standardise performance-enhancing innovations and make them more affordable and accessible.
Interestingly, 18% of respondents felt that the overall impact of wearable tech and AI would remain minimal, arguing that talent and dedication will always outshine technological enhancements.
The report highlights the need for sports organisations to draw clear lines between acceptable technological advances and tech doping, with 44% calling for a total ban on any tech that falls into the latter category. Yet 36% advocated for a more nuanced approach, allowing certain technologies under strict conditions.
As technology continues to push the boundaries of sports performance, the debate around tech doping will remain central to the future of competition fairness.
