China swept the podium at the inaugural FAI World Drone Soccer Championships, dominating both categories with gold and silver medals, while Korea secured strong third-place finishes in each class.
Organised by the Aero Sports Federation of China (ASFC) and the Shanghai Science and Technology Sports Management Center, the first world championships in this rapidly growing sport took place at Shanghai Stadium from 15 to 18 November.
During three days of high-intensity matches, teams demonstrated precision flying, coordinated strategy, and fast decision-making.
Teams from 18 nations competed in one or both of the two classes – F9A-A: 5 active players (+ 2 substitutes), using larger drones of up to 40 cm diameter and F9A-B: 3 active players (+ 2 substitutes), using smaller drones of up to 20 cm diameter<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A striking feature of this first edition was the very young age of many competitors, with numerous players between 10 and 15 years old demonstrating exceptional control, quick thinking, and team coordination. Their performance highlighted the sport’s accessibility and fast-growing appeal among younger athletes.
China captured both world titles with commanding performances, securing gold and silver in F9A-A and gold and silver in F9A-B, confirming its leadership in the sport’s early competitive landscape. Korea earned bronze in both categories.<\/p>\n\n\n\n