Humanoid robot sets new half marathon record at Beijing race

Humanoid robot sets new half marathon record at Beijing race
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A humanoid robot developed by Chinese technology firm Honor has set a new world record in a half marathon in Beijing, outperforming human runners in a landmark demonstration of advances in robotics.

The race, held in the Yizhuang district in southern Beijing, featured both human athletes and more than 100 humanoid robots competing on separate lanes to ensure safety. Spectators gathered along the route to watch the unusual contest between machines and humans.

According to state broadcaster China Central Television, the winning robot completed the 21-kilometre course in 50 minutes and 26 seconds, averaging about 25 km/h. The time surpassed the men’s human world record of 57 minutes and 20 seconds set by Ugandan runner Jacob Kiplimo.

Organisers said the result highlights rapid progress in humanoid robotics. In last year’s event, robot participants struggled to finish the race, with the fastest taking over two hours and experiencing repeated falls.

The sharp increase in robot entries—from around 20 last year to over 100 this year—reflects growing interest and investment in the sector, as companies push the boundaries of artificial intelligence and autonomous mobility.