The Biathlon Integrity Unit (BIU) will move into Phase Two of its Voice Analytics Screening Tool project, a technology-led initiative designed to strengthen the protection of clean athletes and ensure fair competition across the sport.

Field-validated and scientifically backed, Clearspeed’s AI-enabled voice analytics technology assesses risk by analysing the responses to a short set of customised and automated yes/no questions for universal vocal characteristics known to be associated with risk. This delivers a point-in-time, individualised threat assessment for each participant that enables rapid, impartial assessments by the BIU to quickly clear low-risk participants, while focusing its efforts where they are most needed.

Supporting Athletes Through Smarter Integrity Tools

The BIU’s approach puts athlete welfare and fairness at the centre.
By using this tool, clean athletes can be cleared quickly, reducing unnecessary intrusion and building greater confidence in how integrity checks are handled. The process is non-invasive, private, and voluntary, meaning athletes remain in full control of their participation.

BIU Head Greg McKenna said:

“Our aim is to protect clean athletes, not burden them. Technology like this helps us work faster, fairer, and with stronger ethical oversight. It ensures our integrity processes are proportionate and transparent.”

The pilot phase, carried out at during last season’s IBU events, confirmed the technology’s operational value and athlete acceptance when clear communication and ethical safeguards were in place.  Feedback from athletes and coaches directly shaped the next stage, improving question design, privacy messaging, and briefing materials.

Clearspeed’s technology is already trusted in sectors where fairness and accuracy are critical, including law enforcement, the military and insurance. Leading insurers improved fraud detection while resolving honest claims more quickly.

That same reliability now supports the BIU’s mission to protect biathlon athletes.

Stronger Oversight and Transparency

All participation remains voluntary and compliant with European data-protection standards. An independent Ethics Reviewer will oversee Phase Two to ensure transparency and fairness.

Phase Two will expand to include IBU events in the 2025/26 season.

By combining proven technology with strong ethical governance, the BIU continues to lead in modern integrity management, ensuring that clean athletes compete on a level playing field and that biathlon remains a sport defined by trust, respect and fairness. 

As we evolve in our methods and approach, we thank the Biathlon Family for their continued trust and support!