In a striking demonstration of advances in artificial intelligence and robotics in sports, China, last week, hosted the world’s first marathon featuring humanoid robots racing alongside human runners. The event, held in Beijing’s Economic-Technological Development Area, was seen as both a technological showcase and a signal of China’s growing ambition in the AI race with the United States.
A total of 21 humanoid robots, accompanied by their developers from leading universities and tech companies, participated in the 21-kilometer race. Each robot, varying in design, size, and structure, ran on a dedicated track, spaced more than a meter apart from each other. The event drew large crowds, captivated by the surreal sight of robots and humans running side by side.
Battery changes for the robots mimicked Formula 1-style pit stops, highlighting the technical challenges of long-distance robotic locomotion. The event wasn’t just about speed—awards were also given in categories like Best Endurance, Best Gait Design, and Most Innovative Form, recognizing both athletic and engineering excellence.
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State-run Xinhua News Agency released footage of the event, showing robots—including one notably wearing a black sun hat and white gloves—moving along the course. Despite the fanfare, the race was not without its hiccups. Videos circulating on social media showed several robots struggling at the start, with some even collapsing mid-race due to technical issues.
The Tiangong Ultra, developed by the Tiangong Team, emerged as the fastest among the robots, completing the course in two hours and 40 minutes. This was considerably slower than the top human finisher, Ethiopia’s Elias Desta, who completed the race in just over an hour and two minutes.
According to Xiong Youjun, CEO of the Beijing Humanoid Robot Innovation Centre, the marathon served as a rigorous test for the robots’ core algorithms. The course’s varied terrain—featuring slopes, turns, and uneven surfaces—demanded high levels of stability, reliability, and battery efficiency.
The China Electronics Society estimates that the country’s humanoid robot market could grow to approximately 870 billion yuan (around USD 119 billion) by 2030.
“Robots finishing the race isn’t the end—it’s the beginning,” said Liang Liang, Deputy Director of the Yizhuang Administrative Committee. “Today’s small steps could lead to tomorrow’s giant leaps in technological progress.”
Zhao Fuming, director of the Beijing Marathon Association, emphasized that the humanoid robots, varying in height and weight, are being developed for roles in manufacturing, healthcare, and education. He also noted that future marathons could explore more creative ways to incorporate robotic assistance—not just as participants, but in support roles like security or operations.
The event served as a high-profile reminder of how artificial intelligence and robotics have penetrated different spheres of human existence.
Prakhar Sachdeo
The Sportz Planet Desk
