🏆 OFFICIAL ROBOTICS SUMO COMPETITION RULEBOOK

1. EVENT OVERVIEW

Event Name: Robotics Sumo
Match Type: Head-to-Head
Robots per Match: Two (2)
Control System: Fully Autonomous

Objective

Two autonomous robots compete following traditional sumo principles. The objective is to push the opposing robot outside the ring while complying with all technical and safety regulations.

Weapons, flipping mechanisms, and destructive devices are strictly prohibited.

2. MATCH FORMAT

2.1 Match Structure

A match consists of three (3) rounds.
Each round lasts a maximum of three (3) minutes.
The first team to win two (2) rounds wins the match.
If a team wins the first two rounds (2–0), the third round will not be played.
If the score is tied 1–1, a third and final round determines the winner.

2.2 Start Procedure

A coin toss determines which team selects their starting position.
Robots must be placed behind their designated starting lines.
Upon the judge’s signal, robots must begin operation only after a five (5) second delay.
Any movement before the five-second delay results in a minor violation.

2.3 End of Round

A round ends when:

• A robot is pushed outside the ring.

• A robot exits the ring on its own.

• The judge officially stops the match.

• The three-minute time limit expires.

3. SUMO RING SPECIFICATIONS

3.1 Dohyo (Sumo Ring)

The sumo ring must meet the following requirements:

• Shape: Circular

• Diameter: 77.0 centimeters

• Height: 2.5 centimeters

• Material: Laminate or melamine-coated wood

• Border: White circular ring marking the boundary

• Border width: 2.5 centimeters

• Shikiri (starting) lines: 1 centimeter wide, 10 centimeters long

• Distance between starting lines: 10 centimeters

3.2 Ring Areas

The interior is the black playing surface inside the white border.
The borderline is the white circular marking at the outer edge.
The exterior is the area outside the ring and must be flat, safe, and non-hazardous.

3.3 Optional Feature

A slight ring tilt may be introduced for advanced-level competitions.

4. ROBOT CATEGORIES AND SPECIFICATIONS

4.1 R.E.A.L.M. Category

Robots must fit within a 10 cm by 10 cm square before the match begins.
Robots may expand after the match starts.
Maximum allowable weight is 500 grams.
The robot must not separate into multiple pieces during operation.
The robot must be fully autonomous.
The robot must delay movement for five seconds after activation.
Each robot must display a visible name or number for identification.

4.2 LEGO Category

Robots must fit within a 20 cm by 20 cm square before the match begins.
Robots may expand after the match starts.
Maximum allowable weight is 1000 grams.
The robot must not separate into multiple pieces during operation.
The robot must be fully autonomous.
The robot must delay movement for five seconds after activation.
Each robot must display a visible name or number for identification.

5. ROBOT RESTRICTIONS

The following are strictly prohibited:

• Jamming devices such as infrared interference emitters

• Components that damage the ring or opponent

• Liquids, powders, gases, or any thrown substances

• Flames or projectile mechanisms

• Sticky substances used to increase traction

• Vacuum pumps or magnets used for downforce

• Sharp edges capable of scratching or damaging surfaces

• Intentional detachment of robot parts during a match

• Any violation may result in disqualification.

6. SCORING SYSTEM

6.1 Awarding One Point

One point is awarded when:

• A robot forces its opponent outside the ring.

• The opponent exits the ring on its own.

• The opponent touches the exterior surface at the end of regulation time.

6.2 No Point Awarded

No point is awarded if a robot tips over but remains completely inside the ring.

6.3 Rematch Conditions

A round will be restarted if:

• Robots become entangled for more than ten seconds.

• Both robots move but make no progress for more than thirty seconds.

• Both robots exit the ring at the same time.

A maximum of two rematches is allowed per round.

7. VIOLATIONS AND PENALTIES

7.1 Major Violations

Major violations include:

• Use of prohibited mechanisms

• Intentional damage to the ring or opponent

• Offensive or unsportsmanlike behavior toward judges or competitors

Penalty: Immediate loss of the round.

7.2 Minor Violations

Minor violations include:

• Entering the ring during a match

• Moving before the five-second countdown ends

• Intentional stalling or delaying tactics

Two minor violations result in automatic loss of the round.
Penalties carry over within the same match.

8. MATCH INTERRUPTION

8.1 Request to Pause

A team may request a pause due to robot malfunction or safety concerns.

8.2 Inability to Continue

If a team cannot continue after a pause request, that team forfeits the round.
If responsibility for the stoppage is unclear, judges will determine the outcome.

8.3 Decision Time

Judges must make a final decision within five minutes.

9. JUDGING AUTHORITY

All decisions made by judges are final.
No objections are allowed after the match has ended.
Rule enforcement concerns must be raised before the conclusion of the match.

10. SAFETY AND SPORTSMANSHIP

Only one team member may approach the ring during a match.
All other members must remain in designated areas.
Professional conduct and respect are mandatory at all times.

Unsportsmanlike behavior may result in penalties or disqualification.

11. ROBOT INSPECTION

All robots must pass inspection before competition begins. Inspection includes:

• Verification of weight

• Verification of dimensions

• Confirmation of rule compliance

Failure to pass inspection results in disqualification.

12. MISCELLANEOUS

Rules may be adjusted by organizers to maintain fairness and competitiveness.
Any situation not covered in this rulebook will be resolved by the judges.

🏅 End of Official Robotics Sumo Competition Rulebook