TL;DR: The Olympics has just launched its AI Agenda to supercharge performance and redefine the spectator experience.

So what? It’s not just about faster, higher, stronger anymore—welcome to smarter, fairer, more immersive Olympics.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has introduced their very own Olympic AI Agenda, an initiative aimed at seamlessly integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into the sports world. Announced in an interactive event attended by over 100 journalists and numerous online viewers, the agenda is poised to materially shift how we interact with and perceive the Olympic Games.

Human-centric AI for athletic excellence

At the heart of the Olympic AI Agenda is the athlete. Unlike other industries where AI could potentially replace jobs, in sports, the focus is on augmenting human capabilities. Thomas Bach, IOC President, emphasised the IOC’s dedication to using AI to support athletes, saying, "AI can help identify and nurture talent globally, provide personalised training, and improve equipment." Beyond performance, AI will also play a critical role in refining judgment and refereeing, in a bid to foster a fairer competitive environment.

From training to broadcasting—the AI impact

The agenda extends to transforming the spectator experience through advanced broadcasting technologies and making event organisation more efficient. From using AI to streamline Olympic event logistics to enhancing viewer engagement with predictive analytics and personalised content, the initiative promises a more immersive and inclusive Olympic experience for everyone.

A responsible approach to AI in sports

A robust governance framework established by the IOC will ensure that AI technologies are used responsibly, maintaining the integrity of sports and safeguarding the values of the Olympic movement. Bach’s vision of "embracing change while preserving Olympic values" is a testament to the IOC's approach to leading the change rather than being driven by it.

The global discussion and future vision

The event also featured discussions with experts from various fields, including athletes, technologists, and business leaders, who explored the practical applications of AI in sports. Highlights included debates on AI’s role in talent identification, performance enhancement, and even sports equipment design. These discussions underline the extensive impact AI is expected to have on the Olympic landscape.

Paris 2024 and beyond

As we look towards the Paris 2024 Games and beyond, the Olympic AI Agenda sets a precedent for the future of sports technology. It's about pushing the boundaries of what is possible in sports through innovation and ensuring that the spirit of the Olympics continues to evolve, keeping pace with technological advancements.