Eric Patrick
China has officially kicked off its first-ever humanoid robot soccer league in Beijing, marking a major leap forward in robotics and artificial intelligence development.
The AI-powered robots, supplied by Booster Robotics, took to the pitch in a lively tournament that saw teams of child-sized humanoids possessing motor and decision-making skills comparable to 5 to 6-year-old children compete in fast-paced matches.
Despite occasional falls and glitches, the event drew widespread attention for its innovation and humor, with some robots even being carried off the field on stretchers after toppling over.
Booster Robotics founder Cheng Hao said the league was designed not only to entertain but to serve as a critical platform for applied AI research.
“We chose the football scenario for robot competition primarily for two reasons,” Cheng explained.
“First, to encourage students to apply their algorithmic skills to real-world robotics.
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“Second, to showcase the robots’ ability to walk autonomously and stably, withstand collisions, and demonstrate higher levels of intelligence and safety.”
According to Cheng, the robots’ current performance is just the beginning.
He predicted that their capabilities would grow exponentially in the coming years, eventually allowing them to take on adult human teams in fully competitive matches.
The league is part of China’s broader push to lead in advanced robotics, AI, and automation, with real-world applications ranging from industrial work to disaster response and elderly care.