The HUMANOID Race speeds up

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On April 19, 2025, Beijing hosted the world’s first humanoid robot half-marathon, marking a significant milestone in robotics.

Twenty-one bipedal robots competed alongside 12,000 human runners on a parallel track in the Yizhuang district.

The standout performer, Tiangong Ultra, developed by the Beijing Humanoid Robot Innovation Centre, completed the 13.1-mile course in 2 hours and 40 minutes, aided by battery swaps and human handlers.​

Despite the achievement, only six robots finished the race, with many succumbing to falls, overheating, or mechanical issues.

The event highlighted both the advancements and current limitations in humanoid robotics. While the robots lagged behind human runners, the race demonstrated progress in robotic mobility and endurance.

Organisers emphasised the experimental nature of the event, aiming to showcase China’s strides in AI and robotics development.​

As technology continues to evolve, such events provide a glimpse into a future where robots may play more integrated roles in society.​

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