🚀 Challenge AI & Robotics 2026
🚀 Challenge AI & Robotics 2026
Calling startups! Transform sports with AI and robotics! 🚀 Showcase your innovation and compete on the global stage. Apply now!
Welcome to the Sport Innovation Challenge AI & Robotics
Is your startup BOLD enough to push past the boundaries of the status quo and drive innovation to create a brighter future?
ThinkSport, founded in 2015 by the International Olympic Committee and the Canton of Vaud in Switzerland
and AquaBloom International Sports Technology Group (ABSG), a Globalized Leading SportsTech Platform based in Asia as Global Exclusive Lead Partner are jointly calling on startups worldwide between PoC and MVP to join this startup competition for a chance to inspire and disrupt the sport industry!
The semi-finals will take place in late March in a hybrid format. The online session will be run by ThinkSport from Switzerland enabling an international audience to attend. The onsite part will be held at Beijing Shougang Park, one of the venues of the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics and now a hub for technology and innovation in China. Co-hosting with Beijing Shougang Fund, the semi-finals will adopt a hybrid pitch format to select five finalists from a pool of 20 global semi-finalists.
The finals will be at the Olympic Museum in Lausanne Switzerland on 5 May 2026. Win exclusive visibility with the IOC and Sports Federations, prizes including a cash of up to 10 000 CHF and strategic partnerships.
NEW: 5 of the 20 semi-finalists will have the opportunity to be selected for a 7-week acceleration program "Tech4Sport" at the heart of the Olympic Capital.
In addition, these outstanding participating companies will gain access to ABSG's ecosystem and ThinkSport's through THE SPOT, as well as the partnership opportunities with ABSG’s Premier assets to support their global expansion. Winners will also receive investment matching services to effectively accelerate their growth.
Your startup is developing disruptive technologies that can impact the sport industry worldwide and inspire the IOC and International Federations, then ThinkSport and AquaBloom International Sports Technology Group (ABSG) want to hear from you!
Category Examples for Inspiration
Athlete Performance and Injury Prevention
Solutions using AI or robotics to enhance athlete training, optimize performance, or prevent injuries.
Smart Coaching and Analytics
Data Tools providing data-driven coaching, advanced player analysis, or real-time strategy adjustments.
Event Management, Fan Engagement & Media
Innovations enhancing fan experiences, crowd management, or event operations through AI and robotic technologies.
Adaptive and Inclusive Sports Solutions
AI-driven tools or robotic devices enabling greater inclusivity and accessibility in sports for all.
Autonomous Systems in Sport
Robotics applications in refereeing, training simulations, or automated field and equipment maintenance.
Sports Equipment
Development of AI-integrated or robotic sports gear (e.g., smart rackets, balls, or wearable tech) to optimize performance, track metrics, and enhance user experiences.
Here are examples of categories to give you ideas for inspiration.
Any sport applicable impactful innovation is encouraged to apply!
Prizes
- 1st
- 2nd
- 3rd
1st
The Grand Winner will win:
- 10 000 CHF (Cash or In-kind)!
- A speaking opportunity at a panel at THE SPOT
- Develop long-term strategic partnerships with the sport ecosystem
- A priority access to Tech4Sport Accelerator in Switzerland
2nd
The 2nd place startup will win:
- 6 000 CHF (Cash or In-kind)
- Develop long-term strategic partnerships with the sport ecosystem
- A priority access to Tech4Sport Accelerator in Switzerland
3rd
The 3rd place startup will win:
- 4 000 CHF (Cash or In-kind)
- Develop long-term strategic partnerships with the sport ecosystem
- A priority access to Tech4Sport Accelerator in Switzerland
Final Event
The Final will be held on-site on 5 May at THE SPOT in Lausanne (CH). The top 5 finalists will have an unique opportunity to pitch in front of the key decision makers of the sport industry, as well as a selected jury.
The results will then be announced at the end of the Final event!