Document Type : Research Paper
Authors
1 Associated professor in sport management, Sport sciences Faculty, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran
2 Department of Sport Management, Faculty of Sports Sciences, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran.
Abstract
Objective: This study analyzes the effects of blockchain technology on the future of Iran's sports industry.
Methodology: This research is applied and uses a mixed-methods (qualitative-quantitative) approach. In the qualitative phase, thematic analysis and the Glaser approach were used to extract concepts and patterns, and the data were analyzed through open and axial coding. In the quantitative phase, the structural equation model was analyzed using SmartPLS version 4 software. The statistical population in the qualitative phase consisted of 23 experts and specialists who were selected using purposive and snowball sampling methods. In the quantitative phase, 272 stakeholders from sports clubs responded to the questionnaire, and the reliability and validity of the proposed models were evaluated using various methods.
Results: In the qualitative phase, eight main categories were identified from the analysis of interviews, including facilitation of communications, cost reduction, innovation in revenue generation, data transparency and security, and enhancement of fan experience. In the quantitative phase, the structural model was confirmed using structural equation modeling, and the factor loading coefficients indicated that the model has a good fit. This research confirmed the effects of blockchain in improving contract management, developing trust, and exploiting economic benefits in Iran's sports industry.
Conclusion: Blockchain can create fundamental and sustainable transformations in Iran's sports industry. This research shows that the convergence of blockchain and sports, especially in the financial, managerial, and fan interaction areas, will lead to the formation of a new era full of development and innovation opportunities in this industry.
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