Correction and Retraction

Correction and Retraction Policy for Research in Athletics and Global Optimization (RAGO)

Research in Athletics and Global Optimization (RAGO) is committed to maintaining the integrity, accuracy, and reliability of the scholarly record. Corrections, expressions of concern, and retractions are handled in accordance with the guidelines and principles of the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE).

1. Correction

  • Corrections are issued when minor or significant errors are identified in a published article, such as typographical mistakes, inaccurate data, incorrect author names, affiliations, or other information that may mislead readers but do not fundamentally invalidate the main findings or conclusions of the article.
  • Correction requests may be submitted by authors, readers, reviewers, or editors after publication.
  • Upon verification, the journal will publish an official correction notice linked to the original article to maintain transparency and the accuracy of the scholarly record.
  • Corrections are intended to amend the published record while preserving the integrity and reliability of the research.

2. Retraction

  • Retraction of an article may occur when serious errors or ethical violations are identified that substantially affect the validity, reliability, or integrity of the research findings.
  • Grounds for retraction may include plagiarism, data fabrication or falsification, duplicate publication, significant methodological errors, inappropriate authorship, serious conflicts of interest, manipulation of statistical or computational results, or other forms of research and publication misconduct.
  • The retraction process follows the guidelines of the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE) and may involve an investigation by the editors and, where appropriate, the authors' affiliated institutions or relevant authorities.
  • Retracted articles will remain accessible where appropriate, but will be clearly marked with a retraction notice explaining the reason for retraction, in order to maintain transparency and preserve the integrity of the scholarly record.

3. Handling Procedure

  • Suspected errors, research misconduct, or publication ethics violations may be reported by authors, readers, reviewers, editors, or other concerned parties.
  • The editors will conduct an initial assessment of the reported issue and may request clarification, supporting evidence, or a response from the authors.
  • Where necessary, the journal may contact the authors' affiliated institutions or other relevant parties to obtain additional information.
  • If an issue is verified, the journal will determine whether a correction, expression of concern, or retraction is appropriate based on the nature and severity of the issue.
  • In cases of disputes or disagreements, the journal will follow applicable COPE guidelines and procedures to ensure that cases are handled fairly, objectively, and transparently.

4. Responsibilities of All Parties

  • Authors are responsible for the accuracy, originality, integrity, and reliability of the data, methodology, analysis, and content presented in their articles.
  • Editors and reviewers are responsible for supporting the quality, integrity, and ethical standards of the publication process.
  • Research in Athletics and Global Optimization (RAGO) is committed to maintaining an accurate, transparent, and reliable scholarly record through appropriate mechanisms for correction, expression of concern, and retraction when necessary.

Through this policy, RAGO seeks to uphold high standards of academic integrity and publication ethics in the fields of athletics, sports science, physical education, exercise science, human movement, sports performance, biomechanics, sports physiology, sports psychology, sports technology, performance analysis, optimization research, sports data science, sports management, and related fields.