The World Humanoid Robot Games began in Beijing on Friday, attracting more than 500 android robots from around the globe. These machines took part in thrilling events, ranging from 100-metre hurdles to martial arts displays like Kung Fu.
The competition brought together robotics teams from 16 countries, all vying for gold at the National Speed Skating Oval — a venue built for the 2022 Winter Olympics. Events included traditional sports such as athletics and basketball, as well as practical challenges like medical item sorting and cleaning.
Eighteen-year-old spectator Chen Rui Wang told AFP, “I believe within 10 years, robots will basically match human abilities.” Despite the excitement, human athletes did not seem worried. One of the opening events, a five-a-side football match, saw ten child-sized robots stumbling, bumping into each other, and even collapsing together in comical moments.
In the 1500-metre race, local champions from Team Unitree impressed with their speed, easily overtaking competitors. The fastest robot completed the race in 6 minutes 29 seconds — far behind the men’s human world record of 3 minutes 26 seconds. One mechanical racer even crashed into a human operator during the run.
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Organisers say the 2025 World Humanoid Robot Games is the first competition dedicated solely to robots designed with human-like bodies. The Chinese government has made robotics a central part of its national strategy, aiming to lead the industry. According to the International Federation of Robotics, Beijing wants to showcase both its skills and global competitiveness in humanoid technology.
Parents and children also attended in large numbers. Cui Han, who came with her 10-year-old son, said his school organised and funded the trip. “I hope this will inspire him to learn more about new technologies,” she said.
China recently announced a one trillion yuan fund to support tech startups, including robotics and artificial intelligence. Already the world’s biggest market for industrial robots, the country is now making a strong push in humanoid designs.
