04 Mar South Korea to Host 190+ National Teams at the 2026 FIRST Global Challenge: Robotics’ Premier Global Competition
WASHINGTON, DC – March 4th – FIRST Global, the nonprofit dedicated to advancing science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education through organizing the world’s most international robotics competition, is proud to announce that the 2026 FIRST Global Challenge will take place in Incheon, Republic of Korea, from 7 to 10 October, 2026. This Olympics-style robotics event will bring together high school–aged students from over 190 countries to compete and collaborate in the sport of robotics under the theme Igniting Innovation.
The Igniting Innovation Robotics Challenge will task teams with designing and building robots from a standardized kit of parts to address a simulated environment inspired by wildfire prevention, mitigation, and recovery. Through hands-on engineering and strategic gameplay, students will explore how technology can help reduce the risk and impact of fires, protect communities, and support environmental resilience in a warming world.
In addition to the main competition, teams will participate in the Igniting Innovation New Technology Experience (NTE), a project-based initiative that challenges students to develop innovative, real-world solutions using emerging technologies. Through the NTE, teams will examine fire-related challenges in their own countries and propose scalable ideas that leverage data, automation, and scientific research to reduce risk and strengthen preparedness.
Hosting the FIRST Global Challenge in South Korea underscores the country’s role as a global hub for advanced technology, education, and international collaboration. The event will bring thousands of students, mentors, educators, and supporters together, highlighting how youth-led innovation can address one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time.
The 2026 FIRST Global Challenge is made possible through the support of local partners like the City of Incheon and the Incheon Tourism Organization. Yoo Jeong-bok, the Mayor of Incheon, said, “We are delighted that the FIRST Global Challenge, being held in the Republic of Korea for the very first time, will take place in Incheon. Incheon has continuously worked to strengthen youth capabilities and foster future talent through the development of youth-focused facilities and the implementation of diverse policies.” He continued, “This competition will serve as a valuable stepping stone for Incheon’s youth to showcase their dreams and capabilities on the international stage. We hope that the FIRST Global Challenge will become a meaningful starting point for a brighter future for young people in Incheon and across Korea. Incheon will spare no effort in providing support and cooperation to ensure the success of this event, so that young people can enhance their scientific and technological skills and grow through exchanges with peers from around the world.”
FIRST Global believes that by making science and technology as exciting and accessible as any other sport, young people around the world can be inspired to pursue STEM pathways and work together across cultures. By uniting in South Korea under the shared mission of Igniting Innovation, FIRST Global and its partners aim to build a global community of innovators prepared to protect the planet and improve lives through technology.
For more information about the FIRST Global Challenge and how to get involved, visit first.global.
Press Contact:
Matt Stalford
