Shanghai is set to Host the Inaugural FAI World Drone Soccer Championship
Shanghai: The Global Spotlight of Drone Soccer
The FAI, recognizing the growing global participation in drone-related events within aeromodelling sports, has decided to introduce a new aeromodelling competition—the Drone Soccer World Championship—in 2025. This expansion builds upon FAI's existing event lineup, including the World Drone Racing Championship, the World Space Models Championship, and the F3A (Remote Control Aerobatic Aircraft) World Championship. Shanghai, China, has successfully secured the hosting rights for this inaugural tournament, with plans to hold the event at the Shanghai Stadium in Xujiahui Sports Park.
Since 2022, Shanghai has hosted the National Aerospace Model Championship for three consecutive years, using the influence of large-scale events to promote the popularization and development of aerospace modeling—especially indoor events—throughout the city.
Event Highlights: Speed, Passion, Strategy, and Breakthroughs
Drone Soccer is an emerging technology-driven sport, classified as a fast-paced indoor event within aeromodelling. Featuring drones uniquely designed in a spherical form, the competition pits two teams of five players against each other in real-time, head-to-head matches. It showcases precision aeromodelling flight control, teamwork, and tactical coordination—blending cutting-edge innovation with high-octane sports entertainment.
2025 FAI Drone Soccer World Championship will feature two competition classes:
- F9A-A (standard category with larger drones and field dimensions)
- F9A-B (compact category with smaller-scale setups enabling more diverse tactical play)
Notably, the F9A-B class will include a dedicated women's division, established to encourage broader participation and advance gender equality in drone sports.
FAI President Greg Principato stated, Drone Soccer is experiencing rapid global growth, and the 2025 FAI World Cup of Drone Soccer will set a new benchmark for the sport. With Shanghai's world-class venues integrated with cutting-edge technology, this event is poised to deliver an electrifying and unforgettable experience for both athletes and spectators."
"Open to All: Where Technology Meets Sports, in a Grand Celebration of Innovation"
This championship is not merely a competitive event, but a grand celebration of technology and sports for all. During the tournament, Shanghai will host a series of diverse activities, allowing audiences to experience the thrill of Drone Soccer while attracting enthusiasts worldwide to gather in this global metropolis.
As the inaugural host city of the FAI Drone Soccer World Championship, Shanghai will present a spectacular sports extravaganza filled with innovation and passion to global viewers, marking a groundbreaking new chapter for drone soccer.
