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While drone racing has been part of the World Air Sports Federation (FAI) Championship program for several years, another drone sport made its debut from November 15 to 18, 2025. The first Drone Soccer World Championship took place in Shanghai and turned into a triumph for the hosts. In both competition categories, F9A-A and F9A-B, gold and silver remained in China, with South Korea taking the bronze position.

A good strategy, efficient communication, and skill with the remote control are essential for success in Drone Soccer. In addition to individual qualities, one must bring considerable team spirit. Moreover, this young sport not only promotes discipline and tactical understanding but also helps integrate drones into everyday life. Competitions like drone racing or Drone Soccer, which recall „Quidditch“ from the Harry Potter series, can indeed help anchor the topic of unmanned aviation more firmly in societal consciousness.

„Striker“

Perhaps it’s no coincidence that the Asian teams set the tone at the first Drone Soccer World Championship in Shanghai. In both competition categories, F9A-A and F9A-B, the first two places went to the host country, China, while South Korea placed third each time. Similar to traditional soccer, the goal is primarily to defend your own goal and score by flying through the opponent’s goal, which consists of a ring up to 3.5 meters high. However, only one pilot, the so-called „Striker“, is allowed to use their drone to score a goal. Team members are tasked with positioning their striker well and effectively blocking the path through their own goal ring. Matches are played in teams of three to five players, divided into three 3-minute periods. A match is won by the team that wins two periods. 

Image: FAI