From AI-Powered Soccer Matches to Space Exploration Dreams.
Humanoid robots took center stage at the International Humanoid Olympiad 2025 in Ancient Olympia, Greece, the birthplace of the Olympic Games. Over a four-day robotics showcase, machines powered by Booster Robotics technology demonstrated skills such as playing soccer, shadow-boxing, and even archery, capturing the attention of children, researchers, and AI enthusiasts.
The event highlighted the contrast between artificial intelligence (AI) breakthroughs like ChatGPT and the still-developing world of humanoid robotics. While AI chatbots are transforming industries globally, humanoid robots remain years away from performing everyday household tasks like washing dishes or organizing closets.
“Humanoids will likely first venture into outer space exploration before becoming common in smart homes,” said Minas Liarokapis, Greek academic and robotics entrepreneur, who organized the event.
Experts and futurologists discussed the future of humanoid robots, exploring how advances in AI, automation, and robotics engineering could soon bridge the gap between digital intelligence and physical capability. Despite occasional hiccups — from jerky movements to battery swaps — the humanoids’ performances symbolized the rapid evolution of robotics innovation.
With Ancient Olympia as its backdrop, the event drew parallels between the Olympic spirit of human achievement and the future of AI-driven humanoid robots, underscoring their potential role in space missions, industrial automation, healthcare, and smart living.
