The world’s largest robotics and AI competition is set to welcome more than 3,000 participants from around the globe
For the first time in its history, RoboCup — widely regarded as the world’s largest and most prestigious robotics and artificial intelligence competition — will take place in South Korea. RoboCup 2026 is scheduled for June 30 to July 6, 2026, at Songdo Convensia in Incheon, bringing together an estimated 3,000 competitors, researchers, students, and industry professionals from dozens of countries. The event is also expected to attract around 15,000 visitors with an interest in robotics and emerging technologies. The previous edition was held in Salvador, Brazil, in 2025.
Often described as the “World Cup of Robotics,” RoboCup has become a global reference point for advances in robotics and AI. Since its inception in 1997, the competition has united leading universities, research institutions, and rising talent from around the world, challenging teams to develop autonomous robots capable of executing complex, real-world-inspired tasks — ranging from robotic soccer to domestic service scenarios — without any human intervention.
Ubbo Visser, President of the RoboCup Federation, highlighted the significance of the 2026 edition being hosted in South Korea. “Bringing RoboCup 2026 to South Korea represents an important milestone for the global robotics community. Korea offers a highly advanced technological ecosystem, and Incheon provides an ideal setting to connect cutting-edge research, industry leaders, and emerging talent. We look forward to welcoming the global RoboCup community and shaping the future of intelligent robotics together,” he said.
The local organization of RoboCup 2026 is led by Incheon Metropolitan City, organized by the Korea Association of AI Robot Industry (KAR), in collaboration with Incheon Technopark (ITP). The event further reinforces South Korea’s growing position as a global hub for innovation, robotics, and future-facing industries.
Each league operates under its own registration timeline and qualification pathway leading up to RoboCup 2026.