The BASES Expert Statement on Integrity in the Sport and Exercise Sciences.

Abstract

Threats to the integrity of sport arise when moral and ethical values, such as honesty and fairness, are compromised (Kihl, 2020). In 2021, UK Sport's strategic plan set out a commitment to win with integrity and a rejection of a 'win at all costs' approach to competition. Whilst it is recognised that integrity is a crucial aspect of sport participation, governance, and administration (Gardiner et al., 2017), it remains unclear how this commitment will be implemented and realised. Certainly, it will rely on the collective understanding and action of individuals and organisations. In this expert statement, we recognise sport integrity across four levels (Gardiner et al., 2017): personal integrity, organisational integrity, procedural integrity, and the integrity of sport itself. This expert statement aims to explore the scope of integrity within the sport and exercise sciences while focussing on the moral importance of acting with integrity as a practitioner and consider the challenges that may be faced in doing so. Finally, we make suggestions for further research to establish a deeper understanding of integrity in the field of sport and exercise science.