With applications ranging from athlete safeguarding to enhanced broadcast experiences and efficient energy management, artificial intelligence (AI) and technological innovations transform the Olympic Games in Paris 2024, paving the way for future editions. In a groundbreaking initiative, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) launches the Olympic AI Agenda in April 2024, outlining the envisioned impact that AI can deliver for sport. The Paris Games witness the first implementations of this ambitious agenda.
Athlete Safeguarding
One of the key areas where AI makes a significant impact is in safeguarding athletes from cyber abuse. With an expected half a billion social media posts during the Games, the IOC deploys AI to monitor social media and flag abusive messages for intervention. This proactive approach creates a safer and more supportive online environment for athletes.
AI also plays a crucial role in content creation. Advanced algorithms automatically generate highlight videos in multiple formats and languages, ensuring that fans worldwide can enjoy the best moments of the Games in their preferred language. This innovation enhances the global reach and accessibility of the Olympics.
To make the Olympic Games more sustainable, the IOC implements a sophisticated data capture and energy management system, marking the first time such technology is used at the Games. This AI-driven system monitors energy consumption in real-time, providing insights to optimize energy use and reduce the overall carbon footprint.
The IOC leverages AI to revolutionize talent identification in sports. A global project launching in 2025 aims to make AI-driven talent scouting accessible to everyone, fulfilling the commitment to democratize AI in sports. Supported by worldwide Olympic partners such as Alibaba, Deloitte, Intel, and OMEGA, as well as media rights-holders including Warner Bros. Discovery and NBC, this initiative underscores the collaborative effort to integrate AI in sports.
AI-Powered Monitoring System
An AI-powered monitoring system designed to protect athletes from online abuse tracks hundreds of thousands of social media accounts, flagging abusive messages for intervention.
Athletes benefit from a new AI-driven chat service provided in partnership with Intel, available on the Athlete365 platform. This service offers quick answers to frequently asked questions on topics such as social media guidelines, anti-doping rules, and Rule 50 regulations.
Real-Time Energy Monitoring
Behind the scenes, AI streamlines the planning and management of the Games. Energy consumption at Paris 2024 is monitored in real-time, with the captured data informing future event planning.
In collaboration with Intel, the IOC uses digital twinning to create virtual representations of venues. This technology allows planners to foresee power needs, camera placements, and accessibility issues without being on-site, significantly enhancing efficiency.
The Olympic Movement’s Worldwide Information Technology Partner, Atos, coordinates a team of 15 technology partners comprising over 2,000 experts to ensure the Games are fully connected, secure, and digitally enabled.
Multi-Camera Replay Systems
Olympic Broadcasting Services (OBS), in collaboration with Alibaba, deploys AI-powered multi-camera replay systems. These systems create 3D models and additional viewpoints across 21 sports, offering more compelling replays from various angles.
Working with OMEGA, the official timekeeper, OBS uses AI to deliver faster and more insightful data. Innovations like intelligent stroboscopic analysis in diving, athletics, and gymnastics help viewers understand the biomechanics of athletes’ movements. AI-based motion tracking technology assists commentators and viewers in tracking athletes’ positions in various sports.
As the Official AI Platform Partner, Intel introduces AI experiences that transform the Olympic experience for fans, organizers, athletes, and viewers. An automatic highlights generation system compiles key moments from 14 sports into tailored highlight reels, enhancing digital and social media engagement.
Samsung’s 5G Integration
Samsung, the official Wireless Communication and Computing Equipment Partner, equips Galaxy S24 Ultra smartphones on each country’s boat during the Opening Ceremony on the River Seine. This first-of-its-kind celebration features on-board footage shared via an exclusive 5G network powered by Orange, the official mobile network provider. This technology also enhances the fan experience during the Olympic sailing competition.
The Paris 2024 Olympics showcase the transformative power of AI and technology in sports. From safeguarding athletes and enhancing fan engagement to driving sustainability and improving broadcast quality, these innovations elevate the Paris Games and set a new standard for future Olympic events.
