Atlas Humanoid Robot Makes FIFA World Cup Debut, Delivers Match Ball During Brazil-Norway Game

Kathmandu. A humanoid robot has participated in a live FIFA World Cup match environment for the first time, marking a new milestone in the use of robotics at one of the world's biggest sporting events. Atlas, developed by South Korean automaker Hyundai Motor and its robotics subsidiary Boston Dynamics, delivered the match ball to the referee during halftime of the Brazil vs. Norway Round of 16 match at the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Hyundai Motor, the tournament's official robotics partner, used the halftime show to showcase its advanced robotics technology to a global audience, making Atlas the first humanoid robot to take part in an official FIFA World Cup match program.