Humanoid Robots Take Over Beijing
Humanoid robots raced, boxed and battled for the ball in Beijing as more than 2,000 machines took over the National Speed Skating Oval for the second World Humanoid Robot Games, putting China’s rapidly advancing robotics industry on show.
Footage shows humanoids racing around the track, with several crashing to the ground and one being carried away on a stretcher by team members. Others perform martial arts, trade punches in the ring and play football, while developers test and programme machines.
Competition team member Gao Xin said China’s heavy investment in humanoid robotics has helped drive ‘rapid’ progress, with manufacturers making major advances.
“This year’s robots are much more advanced in terms of movement and control than last year. The robot’s attack speed, attack power and ability to stabilise after an attack have all been greatly improved compared to last year,” Gao said.
“The progress made by various manufacturers from last year to this year has been phenomenal. As you can see this year, running results have almost doubled compared to last year. So, I think the progress has been very rapid,” he shared.
Attendee Guo said robot sports could help push humanoids closer to everyday use, with machines tested at their limits before the technology is adapted for practical tasks.
“Our Olympic spirit is about being faster, higher, stronger and more united. These characteristics, when applied to the development of robots, serve as a prerequisite and foundation for their future application in daily life,” he said.
Robots Compete In Sports
The five-day Games opened on August 22 at Beijing’s National Speed Skating Oval, bringing together 2,056 robots from 666 teams across 16 countries to compete in 51 events, up from 26 at the inaugural Games in 2025.
Hundreds of humanoids marched onto the field during Saturday’s opening ceremony in a huge display of synchronised coordination, while organisers and robot makers showed off record-breaking performances.
Article by Viory
More from Wake Up Singapore:
Beijing robot barista pours its way to world record with 202 cups per hour
Until rust do us part – Russia’s first robot wedding takes place in Moscow’s Pushkin Library
Spacewalk surgery – NASA astronauts replace faulty wrist joint on ISS robotic arm
If you have a story or a tip-off, email admin@wakeup.sg or get in touch via Whatsapp at 8882 5913.
Interested in advertising on our media channels? Reach out to us at admin@wakeup.sg!
Since you have made it to the end of the article, follow Wake Up Singapore on Telegram and X!
Wake Up Singapore is a volunteer-run site that covers alternative views in Singapore. If you want to volunteer with us, sign up here!
