https://en.people.cn/n3/2026/0403/c98649-20443127.html

The recent Ablefly National Drone Soccer Championship Finals held in Chengdu, Sichuan province, was joined by 1,116 Chinese and foreign teams.

Drone soccer is an emerging competitive sport that integrates drone flight control with the format of soccer. Players use remote controls, adjusting altitude and rotation with their left hand and directing forward, backward, left and right movement with their right, as if playing “soccer in the air.”

Matches follow a five-versus-five format. A valid goal is scored when a spherical drone fully passes through the opponent’s circular goal. Teams compete through group stages, cross knockouts, ranking matches, semifinals and the finals to determine the winner. On the field, the spherical drones fly at high speed, creating intense visual impact and high spectator appeal.

From precise control and teamwork to real-time decision-making, players sharpen concentration, judgment, and coordination in high-speed competition. Many participants noted that the sport not only enhances their understanding of flight technology but also offers an immersive experience at the intersection of tech and athletics.