Ethical Issues in Sport

Definition

An ethical issue in sport is a problem or situation that requires a person or organisation to choose between alternatives that must be evaluated as right or wrong, ethical or unethical.
Ethics in sport are the moral rules and principles that govern the behaviour of individuals or groups involved in sport.

Doping: The use of banned substances and techniques to enhance performance.
Match-fixing or Cheating: Actions done to determine the outcome of a game or match irrespective of the actual competition.
Violence in Sport: Can result from aggression and competitiveness in players, leading to physical harm of opponents.
Discrimination and Inclusion: All forms of discrimination including on grounds of race, gender or disability, and the issue of inclusion of all participants.
Child protection and Safeguarding: Necessary to protect young people involved in sports from harm and abuse.

Doping refers to the use of banned performance-enhancing substances by athletes in sports.
It is considered unethical as it gives the user an unfair advantage over others, devalues the principles of true sport, and can lead to serious health complications.

Match-fixing in sport occurs when the outcome of a match is predetermined, often to benefit those betting on the outcome, rather than determined by the skill and effort of the players.
Cheating, like diving or pretending to be fouled in football, is an unethical practice that undermines the spirit of sport.

Violence in sport often occurs due to high levels of aggression and competitiveness.
This can range from reserved aggression in contact sports like rugby, to extreme violence leading to injuries, which is against the ethical conduct of sport.

Discrimination in sport can be based on race, gender, disability, age, sexual orientation, religion, or nationality.
An ethical sporting environment emphasises equity, inclusion, and nondiscrimination, only differentiating participants based on relevant sporting criteria.

Child protection and safeguarding in sport involves practices and policies to protect under-age participants from abuse and exploitation.
Organisations are expected to ensure the safety and welfare of young people in sport, providing them with enjoyable and safe sporting experiences.

Sport governing bodies have a crucial role in promoting ethics in sport and addressing ethical issues.
They develop and enforce rules and regulations, conduct anti-doping programs, and enforce penalties for unethical behaviour.
Governing bodies also play an important role in providing ethical education and raising awareness about ethical issues in sport.