1. World Association for Sport Management Conference (WASM 2026)
  2. SPECIAL ISSUE

SPECIAL ISSUE

Special Issue

SPECIAL ISSUE

Special Issue in the Journal of Global Sport Management

Global Challenges in Sport: Digitalization, Sustainability and Inclusiveness
 

Submission Deadline: April 30, 2026

 

Background:

The integration of digital technologies into everyday activities has profoundly influenced sports. The rise of digital platforms, data analytics, and advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) has revolutionized various aspects of sports, from athlete performance to fan engagement and management efficiency. At the same time, with the increased focus on climate change and social responsibility, sports organizations are pioneering efforts to operate in more sustainable ways. Among the characteristics of digitalization and sustainability, inclusiveness may be a common denominator. Indeed, sport must be inclusive in order to be accessible, equitable, and sustainable for every individual, regardless of gender, race, ability, or socioeconomic status. Promoting inclusiveness fosters diversity, enriches sports culture, and maximizes the potential and reach of sports.

Aligned with the Journal of Global Sport Management’s scope, this special issue seeks to adopt an interdisciplinary approach and encourage submissions from diverse fields. Consequently, the aim is to compile and share high-quality research that tackles the interconnected challenges of the modern sports industry. While submissions related to any of the specified themes (digitalization, sustainability, inclusiveness) are invited, priority will be given to studies examining the intersections of two or all three of these crucial areas. Although contributions from attendees of the 5th World Association for Sport Management (WASM) conference are particularly encouraged, submissions are open to all researchers, regardless of their participation at the conference.

 

Potential areas of interest could include:

  1. Digitalization in Sport:
    • Analyze the impact of digital innovations on sports performance, management practices, and fan engagement.
    • Understand how data analytics, AI, and digital platforms transform athlete training and operational strategies.
    • Examine the rise of e-sports and the broader digital transformation within the sports entertainment domain.
  2. Sustainability in Sport:
    • Investigate sustainable practices within sports organizations and their environmental impact.
    • Discuss the economic and social sustainability of sporting events and infrastructure development.
    • Highlight the role of sports entities in advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
  3. Inclusiveness in Sport:
    • Study policies and initiatives aimed at improving gender equity and the representation of underrepresented groups in sports.
    • Address accessibility issues in sports programs and facilities for individuals with disabilities.
    • Explore the role of sports in fostering cultural inclusiveness and societal cohesion.

 

Priority consideration will be given to research that integrates:

  • Digital technologies that support sustainability and inclusiveness.
  • Sustainability efforts that incorporate digital advancements and promote inclusivity.
  • Inclusive practices that leverage digital tools and contribute to sustainable development.

No preference is given to empirical vs. theoretical/conceptual or quantitative vs. qualitative papers, yet each submission should make a unique and novel contribution to the literature. Submissions should be made via the journal’s online submission system (ScholarOne) and authors should indicate in their cover letter that the submission is to be considered for the Special Issue. Prospective authors are welcome to contact the guest editors with any questions or feedback on manuscript topics.

 

Guest Editors:

  • Christos Anagnostopoulos, PhD, Associate Professor, UNESCO Chair on Governance and Social Responsibility in Sport, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar (canagnostopoulos@hbku.edu.qa)
  • Brendon Knott, PhD., Associate Professor, Sport Management, Director of the Centre for Sport Business and Technology Research Cape Peninsula University of Technology, South Africa Knottb@cput.ac.za