RoboCupJunior Soccer
RoboCupJunior Soccer challenges teams to design, build, and program autonomous robots capable of competing in a dynamic football environment. These robots must move around the field, track the ball, and develop movement strategies—all without human intervention. The competition provides a stimulating platform for young engineers to develop their skills in mechanical design, electrical engineering, and artificial intelligence.
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Teams are invited to join the RoboCupJunior community on our Discord server and junior forum.
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Share your projects, ask questions, or participate in weekly discussions about future rules and the organization of the league.
You can also contact the soccer league committee directly by email:
robocupjunior-soccer [at] robocup [dot] org
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Soccer Leagues
RoboCupJunior Soccer offers several leagues, each designed to challenge students at different levels. The main competitions are the 2:2 Lightweight and 2:2 Open leagues, while entry-level and simulation leagues offer newcomers the opportunity to try out the sport.
2:2 Soccer
In the 2:2 leagues, two robots per team compete in dynamic matches that emphasize teamwork, sensor integration, and artificial intelligence.​​​​
Soccer Lightweight
The robots in this league must comply with stricter weight limits than in the Open league, but they benefit from larger dimensions. They track a ball emitting infrared signals, which reduces reliance on camera vision. This league emphasizes effective hardware design as well as electronic and mechanical engineering.
Soccer Open
In this category, the robots must detect and track an orange golf ball using cameras, which represents a much greater software challenge. Teams focus on advanced image processing and AI-based movement strategies, making software development a key factor for success.
Ball replacement starting in 2026
Starting in 2026, the RoboCup 2v2 leagues will begin using an infrared golf-ball-sized ball. This orange ball emits infrared light, allowing all soccer teams to use the same ball.
1:1 Soccer Entry
For newcomers to RoboCupJunior Soccer, the 1:1 entry leagues provide an accessible starting point. These competitions feature one robot per team, allowing students to develop their fundamental skills before progressing to the 2:2 leagues.
Entry leagues are currently available in certain regions and at the European Super Regional tournament. As availability varies by region, teams are encouraged to check with their regional representative to confirm participation details.
1-1 Standard Kit League
This introductory league limits the components, thus ensuring equal opportunities for new participants.
1:1 Lightweight League
Serving as a stepping stone to the 2:2 Lightweight league, this competition allows for greater flexibility in design while maintaining an emphasis on the fundamentals.
Challenge Soccer Simulation
The RCJ Soccer Simulation Challenge is a fully online competition launched during RoboCup Worldwide 2021.
Teams submit their code to be tested on virtual robots operating on a simulated soccer field. This competition offers the opportunity to develop advanced AI and control algorithms without requiring physical hardware, making it an excellent starting point for students interested in software robotics.
Although the competition is not currently organized at the international level, it can still be useful for the development of their robots.
