Drone racing is making a return to The World Games this August in Chengdu, China (13–16 August), after a successful debut in 2022. The sport has seen a rapid rise since hobbyists first began racing drones in Germany just over a decade ago.
As drone technology has advanced, so has the sport’s popularity—especially among younger audiences, with Asia becoming a major hub of interest. Its fast-paced, tech-driven format has drawn comparisons to e-sports and gaming, making it especially attractive to digital-savvy fans.
Max Bishop, former Secretary General of the FAI and ex-Vice President of the International World Games Association (IWGA), recalled how drone racing earned its place in the Games. “At that time, drones as a leisure activity and sport suddenly came to prominence,” he said. “We saw it had real potential from a public interest point of view.”
The sport debuted at The World Games 2022 in Birmingham, Alabama, where over 3,400 athletes competed across 34 sports. “They gave us a great big stadium, and the racing itself was quite impressive,” said Bishop, adding that drone racing appeals to younger generations due to its links with gaming culture.
Beyond entertainment value, drone racing is also praised for its inclusivity. It is one of the few competitive sports where disabled athletes, including those in wheelchairs, can participate equally with others. It challenges mental agility and fine motor skills, even if it lacks the physical intensity of more traditional sports.
IWGA President José Perurena López emphasized this appeal. “At The World Games, we embrace innovation, and the inclusion of drone racing reflects our commitment to showcasing dynamic, cutting-edge disciplines,” he said. “It combines technology, speed, and skill in a way that captivates a new generation of athletes and fans.”
Since its debut, organizers have made several improvements to the viewing experience. At the 2022 Games, some spectators found it difficult to follow the high-speed action. For Chengdu 2025, enhancements to race visibility and fan engagement are expected to deliver a much more thrilling show for newcomers and seasoned fans alike.
