Do Androids Dream of Footballs? From Traditional Football to Smart Football [5.3381]
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.56754/2735-7236.2026.3381%20Keywords:
Football, Sport, Artificial intelligence, TechnologyAbstract
Football is undergoing a technological transformation driven by the use of big data and artificial intelligence (AI), among other technologies, marking the beginning of what we may call “smart football.” However, despite their promises of objectivity and effi ciency, data-based models have limitations, especially in a sport shaped by human behavior and talent. In addition, the use of biometric devices, wearables, and predictive systems raises legal and ethical challenges, particularly regarding the protection of personal data, athletes’ health, the use of sensitive information, and the integrity of competition. Therefore, it is necessary to move toward clear and internationally coordinated regulatory frameworks that make it possible to harness the benefi ts of technology without compromising players’ fundamental rights or the competitive balance of the sport.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Nicolás Ojeda-Zavala, Michelle Azuaje-Pirela
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