Sumo Bot Challenge 2025
Orlando, FL, US
November 8 - November 9, 2025
Event Information
| Organizer: |
Maker Faire Sumo Bot Challenge |
| Location: |
4603 W Colonial Dr Orlando, FL 32808 US Get Directions |
| Starts: | Nov 8, 2025 |
| Ends: | Nov 9, 2025 |
| Website: | https://www.makerfaireorlando.com/exhibits/sumobot-challenge/ |
Registration
| Starts: | Sep 15, 2025 20:09 UTC |
| Ends: | Nov 7, 2025 20:11 UTC |
| Waiting List: | Allowed |
| Entry Fees: | Fee per robot (See class list) |
Event Organizers
Robot Classes / Competitions
| Category | Robot Class | Maximum Capacity |
Currently Registered |
Waiting List |
Entry Fee |
Pit Crew Allowed |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sumo | Novice 500g Mini-sumo (Auto) | 16 | None | None | 20.00 USD | Unlimited |
| Sumo | 500g Mini-sumo (Auto) | 24 | None | None | 20.00 USD | Unlimited |
Event Description
This is the first Sumo Bot Challenge at Maker Faire Orlando! Maker Faire Orlando, Nov 8 & 9th 2025 is the largest Maker Faire in the Southeast and is not to be missed!
Rules:
We use the Robogames Unified Rules here in the autonomous 500g (Minisumo) weight class.
The Dohyo is a round ¾” thick painted MDF board per the rule specs. It will sit on top of an approximate 4’x4’ table that will have an edge to prevent bots from running off the edge. This lip will be below the dohyo height to avoid sensor fouling.
Robots must have a 5 second countdown start using either button press or IR remote. Battery plugging to activate the 5 second countdown in not allowed. Any bot that moves before the 5 seconds during check-in will not be allowed to compete.
It is allowed to adjust programming logic at any point during either day, provided it does not hamper the event schedule.
One postponement per team per day (15 min) is permitted.
Classes:
Two divisions will be run – Casual and Competitive:
Casual – for first-timers, rookies, and expects generic components not specifically sumo bot. If you’re new to this, or you like designing bots for bots’ sake, this division is for you.
Competitive – for those that want no-holds barred action, these bots have higher end motors and controllers, sensors and specialized components and kits, and meant to go all out to win.
A thoughtful approach is intended for these divisions. If you have questions about where your bot fits, let’s discuss. If needed the division can be adjusted after registration, so register now, we can sort that later if needed.
Tournament:
There will be a Tournament held each day. Teams are asked to participate both days, as this is an exhibition intended for audience enjoyment and to garner interest in the sport.
Each Tournament will be a double elimination bracket for each division. There will be a cap of 32 robots for each division. A round robin tourney will be substituted if the participant list is too short for a regular bracket.
The Tourney will be maintained on Challonge.com. You can track the results, rankings, and upcoming matches to keep you up to date.
Winners 1st, 2nd, 3rd will receive a trophy
Schedule:
9:30-10:30 am – Registration and Check-in. Each team will be directed to a pit area – the area will be minimal but sufficient to work on your bot and out of reach of the visitors. Each bot will be weighed, verified it’s within size limits, and the 5s timer confirmed.
10:30-2pm – Competition matches. We will alternate between divisions to allow time for recharging or battery swaps. We will try to run between combat robot matches to maximize audience attention, but it’s likely there will be overlap.
3pm – Awards
Resources:
Some helpful links for potential components/kits
Amazon.com – good for kits and generic components.
Jsumo.com – great source for dedicated components and kits. Delivery time can be long. Sumozade.com – another source for dedicated components and kits. Delivery time can be long.
palmbeachbots.com – great source for all sorts of combat robot parts, and speedy delivery