Know the sport · The beautiful game, autonomously
Robot football
Robots find the ball, read the pitch and work together to score.
- The format
- Team matches; robot numbers, pitch and restarts are league specific.
- Who’s in control?
- Autonomous in RoboCup soccer; sensing and computing rules vary.
How it works
Robot football turns a familiar game into a test of perception, movement and team decisions. Autonomous competitors must work out where the ball, goals and other robots are, then choose what to do without a person steering every action.
RoboCup includes different approaches to the problem, from wheeled robots to humanoids and simulation. Their fields, sensing arrangements and rules differ. League structures are also evolving, so use current official information when choosing a competition.
The spectator’s checklist
What to watch for
- Passes and movement away from the ball
- Recovery after a fall or loss of ball tracking
- How the team creates space instead of crowding the ball
Getting involved
- Compare full matches from more than one league.
- Explore RoboCupJunior for youth entry routes.
- Read the relevant rulebook before selecting hardware or a simulator.
Your next stop
Useful links
Find the organisers, current rules and places to follow the action.
RoboCup videosFederation videos introducing RoboCup and its competitions. Follow individual league and event sites for match coverage. (opens in a new tab)RoboCupJuniorExplore youth soccer, rescue and performance challenges, with getting-started guidance and links to regional events. (opens in a new tab)RoboCup Small Size League rulesThe league committee’s rulebook, change notes and rule sources for Small Size robot football. (opens in a new tab)RoboCup Humanoid League rulesHumanoid football rule documents and historical versions. Match the document to the competition and season you are following. (opens in a new tab)RoboCup’s competition roadmapThe federation’s announced restructuring of international leagues. Read this alongside current league entry information when planning ahead. (opens in a new tab)