Robot vs robot: China to host first-ever humanoid sports games in 2025

Get ready for a sporting event like no other. From August 15 to 17, Beijing will host the 2025 World Humanoid Robot Sports Games, a groundbreaking competition where humanoid robots will go head-to-head in athletic and real-world performance events. The event will take place at two iconic venues: the National Stadium (Bird’s Nest) and the National Speed Skating Oval (Ice Ribbon) — both originally built for the Beijing 2008 Olympics.This is the first full-scale multi-sport competition for humanoid robots ever held. It follows the city’s successful hosting of the world’s first humanoid robot half-marathon in April.At a press conference on Wednesday, Zhang Hua from the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Sports said: “By mimicking human movement, the mechanical structure optimization and motion algorithm will be enhanced, demonstrating continuous progress in robotics technology and a harmonious vision of robots and humans coexisting.”The games will feature 11 unique events, according to China Central Television (CCTV). These include robot versions of track and field, gymnastics, and soccer, along with performance-based and scenario-based tasks.In the sports category, robots will be tested for speed, coordination, and teamwork, particularly in short-distance sprints, gymnastics routines, and small-team soccer matches.In the performance section, expect synchronized and solo dance routines — yes, robots dancing.But perhaps the most fascinating are the scenario-based challenges, where robots will take on tasks from real-life professions. These include medicine sorting, concierge services, and industrial material handling, designed to test both motor skills and decision-making capabilities.According to Jiang Guangzhi, director of the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Economy and Information Technology, robots competing in the games must follow strict rules.“All robots must be self-contained, unmarked, and self-powered, with no hazardous energy sources involved,” Jiang said. “Teams must also provide their own internet connectivity during the games.”He also emphasized the importance of international cooperation: “It is imperative to strengthen global exchanges and cooperation and enhance interaction and collaboration among research, industry and end-users,” Jiang added.The Humanoid Robot Games will run just after another major event — the 2025 World Robot Conference (WRC), scheduled for August 8 to 12. The WRC will mark its 10th anniversary, with about 200 robotics companies expected to showcase their latest innovations.In an X post, People’s Daily China called the Humanoid Robot Games “the world's first multi-sport competition for humanoid robots,” highlighting that they will test athletic and functional skills across a wide range of areas.