More than 80% of sports organisations are already deploying artificial intelligence in their operations and nearly all plan to increase investment in the technology over the next year, according to the inaugural Global SportsTech Report 2026.
The study, published by SportsPro in partnership with Sportradar, found that 82% of respondents are currently using AI, while 98% intend to expand its use within the next 12 months.
Drawing on a global survey of more than 160 senior executives from leagues, teams, brands, broadcasters, media platforms, and venue operators, alongside interviews and case studies, the report examines six themes shaping sport’s digital transformation: media and content, infrastructure and operations, stadiums and venues, betting and gaming, fan engagement, and athletic performance.
Nearly three-quarters of respondents revealed their AI initiatives have already delivered tangible value, while 72% view AI as the technology with the greatest potential for their organisation over the next five years.
Content creation and distribution emerged as the leading area for AI expansion, with 73% of organisations planning to increase use in that segment. The report also found that 60% said digital platforms have unlocked new direct revenue opportunities, while 31% identified betting and gaming as the direct-to-consumer revenue stream with the greatest opportunity.
Beyond AI, 57% of respondents say enhanced 5G and Wi-Fi connectivity holds the most potential to transform the in-venue experience, and 78% pointed to advanced data analytics as the technology likely to have the most significant impact on the field of play in the next five years.
While 80% of respondents believe the technology industry is well-equipped to serve sport, 63% say more sports-specific technologies are needed to achieve their business goals.
“Modern technologies have revolutionised virtually every aspect of sport, transforming how it is played, organised and consumed at all levels,” said Steve McCaskill, SportsPro Editor and lead author of the report.
“Sport’s embrace of scientific knowledge, data analytics, and increasingly capable hardware and software has redefined the limits of athletic performance, reimagined the fan experience, and unlocked new efficiencies and revenue streams that have accelerated growth off the field of play.
“The next stage of sport’s great digital transformation will be defined by AI, while advances in mobile technology and more affordable solutions will have a dramatic democratising effect, bringing the sporting and commercial benefits of this revolution to millions more people around the world.”
Behshad Behzadi, Chief Product, Technology, and AI Officer at Sportradar, said the report highlights the importance of collaboration and innovation across the industry.
“We are pleased to partner with SportsPro to deliver this comprehensive look at the technological forces reshaping the industry. As a global leader in sports technology, we recognise that the next frontier of fan engagement will be defined by continuous collaboration and innovation,” he said.
“This report underscores our commitment to not only leading that charge through advanced, AI-powered products and solutions but also providing the strategic insights that help the entire sports ecosystem navigate a more digital, data-driven future.”
Original article: https://www.yogonet.com/international/news/2026/02/24/117740-global-sportstech-report-2026-finds-82-of-sports-organizations-deploying-ai
