The tool will be available to all sports federations, leagues and governing bodies, aimed at protecting the mental health and wellbeing of athletes, by discouraging online abuse through investigation and intervention.
The solution, created by the data supplier's Intelligence and Investigation Services team, draws upon advanced technology to launch a service that will try to address and protect athletes from the growing concern of online abuse.
The service aims to identify those behind anonymous ‘troll’ or ‘burner’ accounts who direct abuse towards athletes, with Sportradar’s specialist team sharing findings of the investigation with its partners. Further support will then be provided, including the removal of such accounts and working with law enforcement to bring legal proceedings.
The product was trialled earlier this summer at the Exo-Tennis series in German and the US. Participating players shared abusive messages they received on social media, with Sportradar providing event organisers details of the accounts and recommendations on the best course of action, following an investigation.
Sportradar Integrity Services managing director Andreas Krannich, said: “Maintaining the integrity of sport and ensuring that it’s safe, fair and enjoyable for all, has long been our priority.
“Now, with this new service, we’ve strengthened our position in this space by safeguarding the athletes who compete in it and protecting them from online harm and social media abuse.”
