Solving the Doping Problem Using Conditional Superannuation

What is it about?

This article introduces and then examines a novel antidoping policy mechanism, based upon a conditional superannuation fund for professional athletes. It begins by presenting a theoretical case in favor of the scheme relative to the background of current policy. Consideration is given to the utility and benefits of a conditional superannuation mechanism to augment existing antidoping policy structures. The case is developed using results from a pilot experimental economics study testing the policy proposal, which suggests that the conditional superannuation mechanism has the potential to outperform existing measures, such as fines and bans. This article offers a policy variation that could supplement the existing arrangements as a contiguous mechanism. While no single policy intervention seems plausible in fully eliminating sport doping, a combination of incentive and punitive mechanisms may yield a superior policy mix to help attenuate doping’s prevalence in elite sport. The evidence presented here within the antidoping policy context may also recommend the utility of conditional superannuation as a mechanism to address other enduring challenges in sport, such as violence, gambling, and behavioral transgressions.

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Why is it important?

Sports fans are too-frequently presented with revelations of doping by athletes – a practice seemingly ubiquitous across many sports. This aims to improve sports integrity policy by determining the optimal design and mix of penalties to circumvent doping by elite athletes. It considers the efficacy of combinations of conventional penalties, such as fines and suspensions, as well as new and innovative ideas – incentive-based mechanisms – such as conditional superannuation (withholding a nominal portion of athlete earnings, managed in trust and re-distributed post-retirement conditional on never doping).

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