Fair Play vs. Bribery: Does Sport Have an Advantage? A Slovak Perspective

Abstract

Background and Purpose: Sport is an industry traditionally associated with principles of fair play, integrity, and ethical behavior. However, it has not been immune to dishonest behavior such as bribery. These issues undermine trust in sports organizations and highlight the need for effective governance mechanisms such as anti-bribery management systems. Despite the ethical foundations of sport, little is known about how these values translate into attitudes toward bribery, particularly among young athletes. The aim of this study is to examine whether the fair play mentality represents an advantage in implementing anti-bribery measures in sports organizations, based on the perceptions of young athletes.

Methods: The research employed a quantitative approach using a structured questionnaire distributed electronically to students of secondary sports schools in Slovakia. A total of 214 respondents participated. The questionnaire covered thematic areas including awareness of bribery, attitudes toward unethical behavior, and knowledge of anti-bribery measures. Six hypotheses were developed through the research framework and verified using descriptive statistics and inferential methods.

Results: The findings indicate that young athletes demonstrate a relatively high awareness of bribery, with most perceiving it as a serious societal and sports-related issue. A significant positive correlation was identified between knowledge of bribery and its perceived seriousness. Education in ethics and fair play significantly increased the willingness to report corrupt behavior. Significant differences were identified between athletes in individual and team sports. Awareness of anti-bribery measures was positively associated with more favorable evaluations of sports organizations, although the relationship was weak and context-dependent. The majority of young athletes expressed the need to strengthen anti-bribery efforts in sport. Additionally, personal experience with dishonest behavior significantly increased the perceived seriousness of bribery.

Conclusion: The findings of this study confirmed that while the fair play mentality contributes to ethical sensitivity among young athletes, it is not sufficient on its own to effectively prevent bribery. Systematic education, increased transparency, and stronger implementation of anti-bribery measures are necessary to enhance integrity in sports organizations. The findings highlight the importance of combining value-based approaches with formal governance tools to address bribery risks in sport.