In a move to streamline operations, Cambridge United has become the first football club to adopt artificial intelligence for drafting and reviewing player contracts. The League Two side has partnered with local tech firm Genie AI to cut legal costs and speed up negotiations, particularly with the transfer window deadline approaching.
Club CEO Alex Tunbridge emphasized the benefits of the new system, stating that AI will allow the team to maintain legal accuracy while saving significant time and money. These savings, he noted, can then be redirected toward improving squad depth, facilities, and fan engagement.
Genie AI, a Cambridge-based startup, will oversee the implementation of the technology, ensuring compliance with Football League regulations. The company’s CEO, Rafie Faruq, expressed pride in supporting his hometown club with innovative solutions.
While AI has been used in football for performance analysis and scouting, this marks its first direct application in contract management. The system is set to launch this month, just in time for the club’s final transfer dealings.
This initiative reflects a broader trend of AI integration in sports, as clubs seek efficiency gains in an increasingly competitive industry.