Law. Human. Environment

Artificial intelligence in the fight against doping: Between breakthrough and ethical and legal dilemma

Tahmina Taghi-zada, Rufat Efendiyev
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Abstract

The introduction of artificial intelligence (AI) into doping control procedures transforms decision-making and requires verification of the validity, reproducibility and non-discriminatory nature of models. The study aimed to comprehensively examine the possibilities and limitations of AI in anti-doping activities, with an emphasis on the identification of ethical dilemmas and the assessment of the effectiveness of new technological solutions in international and national practices. The study uses qualitative content analysis, comparative legal analysis, and critical assessment of regulatory and ethical frameworks to analyse legal restrictions, the integration of AI technologies into Azerbaijan’s anti-doping policy and international practice. The results obtained highlighted the significance of the key provisions of the AI Development Strategy for 2025-2028, which create a regulatory and ethical framework for the application of technologies in Azerbaijan’s anti-doping control, as well as the requirements of the Council of Europe Convention, which ensure the protection of human rights, transparency, accountability and the prevention of discrimination in the use of AI in sport. The results also showed ongoing ethical and legal risks, such as the limited explainability of AI models, the lack of procedural protections for contesting automated decisions, and the possibility of algorithmic bias being reinforced by uneven training data. These risks could jeopardise the legitimacy of AI-based anti-doping control and the effective protection of athletes’ rights. However, the analysis revealed significant risks of algorithmic bias, insufficient transparency and explainability of intelligent systems, threats to the privacy and rights of athletes, and socio-economic inequality in access to technology

Keywords

technology development strategies; machine learning algorithms; personal data protection; regulatory frameworks; risks of technology application

Suggested citation
Taghi-zada, T., & Efendiyev, R. (2026). Artificial intelligence in the fight against doping: Between breakthrough and ethical and legal dilemma. Law. Human. Environment, 17(1), 174-189. https://doi.org/10.31548/law/1.2026.174
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