Artificial intelligence for disability inclusion in sport: Opportunities, challenges, and a conceptual framework

Abstract

This perspective explores the emerging role of artificial intelligence (AI) in promoting inclusion of persons with disabilities, particularly para-athletes, within sports and exercise contexts. Despite global recognition of disability inclusion, individuals with disabilities continue to face significant personal, environmental, and systemic barriers that limit their engagement in physical activity. Drawing on existing literature, this study examines how AI-driven technologies, including assistive devices, wearable systems, and data-driven rehabilitation tools, can address these challenges by enhancing accessibility, enabling personalized interventions, and supporting real-time monitoring of performance and health outcomes. The paper also highlights the role of AI in improving communication, training customization, and environmental accessibility, thereby fostering greater autonomy and participation. Additionally, ethical considerations such as data privacy, algorithmic bias, and overreliance on technology are critically discussed. Finally, a conceptual framework is proposed that emphasizes user-centred design, interdisciplinary collaboration, and AI-based education to create inclusive and accessible sports ecosystems. The findings suggest that while AI holds significant promise, its effective implementation requires careful integration with human-centred approaches to ensure equitable and sustainable inclusion in sport.

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