Developing a recovery management model for sports elites (champions, coaches, referees, and managers) with a circular economy approach

This research aimed to design a model for the recovery management of elite sports athletes, including champions, coaches, referees, and managers, based on the circular economy approach. The research was fundamental and qualitative in nature and with a data-based theory strategy. The participants were retired elite sports athletes and experts in the field of sports and economics in Iran, who were selected through theoretical and purposeful sampling. Data collection was conducted through 15 semi-structured interviews, and data analysis was conducted simultaneously with collection in three stages of open, axial, and selective coding. In the initial stage, 974 codes were extracted, which were reduced to 394 codes, 171 concepts, and 31 subcategories after refinement. Then, the relationships between causal, contextual, intervening conditions, strategies, and outcomes were explained in the form of a paradigmatic model, and finally, the final theory was formulated. The findings showed that the model for the recovery management of elite sports athletes with a circular economy approach provides a comprehensive framework for the sustainable use of human capital in sports. This model emphasizes the management of the elite cycle, including attracting, nurturing, retaining, and returning elites, so that the experience and knowledge of the elites are transferred to the next generations. Also, the circular economy approach in this model means the optimal use of human resources and capacities and preventing their waste. The results of the research indicate that effective management of the elite cycle can pave the way for sustainable development in sports.