Intelligent Knowledge Exploration and Processing

Intelligent Knowledge Exploration and Processing

Legal Challenges of Artificial Intelligence and Biometric Data Management in Athletes: Boundaries of Ownership, Consent, and Privacy Protection in Professional Sports

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
Mojtaba Ghorbani Asiabar 1
Morteza Ghorbani Asiabar 2
Alireza Ghorbani Asiabar 2
1 Postdoctoral in Management and Planning, Payam Noor University, Qazvin, Iran
2 Payam Noor University, Qazvin, Iran
10.30508/kdip.2025.537239.1149
Abstract
In the modern era of professional sports, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and biometric data collection technologies has significantly increased to enhance performance and prevent injuries. However, this advancement presents complex legal and ethical challenges, including defining data ownership, obtaining valid informed consent from athletes, and safeguarding their privacy. The necessity of this study arises from the lack of transparent and comprehensive standards for managing athletes’ biometric data at national and international levels. This research aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of legal issues emerging from the deployment of AI in biometric data management of athletes and to propose practical solutions that balance club interests with athletes' fundamental rights. An analytical-descriptive method was employed, including a comparative review of key regulations such as GDPR and BIPA as well as sample contract analysis and field data gathered via questionnaires. Statistical tests, including logistic regression and analysis of variance (ANOVA), were utilized to examine the effects of data collection factors on athletes’ satisfaction. Findings reveal that the absence of standardized consent procedures and clear ownership rules exacerbates contractual tensions and privacy concerns. The study recommends implementing clear, binding legal frameworks for data governance and responsible AI utilization. The originality of this research lies in its integration of technology-driven sports law perspectives, application of advanced statistical analyses, and development of actionable frameworks tailored for professional sports.
Keywords
Artificial Intelligence
Biometric Data
Informed Consent
Data Ownership
Privacy Protection