Countdown to World Humanoid Robot Games: Kids Explore 'Ice Ribbon'
With the countdown to the second World Humanoid Robot Games underway, the 'Ice Ribbon' National Speed Skating Oval in Beijing welcomed a special group of visitors. The 2026 'Care for Growth, Light Up Hope' public welfare project invited 100 child representatives from Beijing to step inside this Winter Olympic venue and witness the robot 'athletes' in their preparations.
Once known for producing the 'fastest ice', the Ice Ribbon is now transforming its role. As part of Beijing's iconic 'Double Olympic City' landmark cluster alongside the Bird's Nest and Water Cube, the venue is building a 'sports + technology + culture' brand and aiming to become a hub for Beijing's robotics industry. Today, this newly revamped sports-tech venue serves as the arena for the upcoming games.
At the Beijing Humanoid Robot Training Base, the children saw realistic scenes—supermarkets, libraries, and hotels—that have been set up for competition events. Guides explained the concept and principles of humanoid robots, followed by a warm-up show featuring robots performing a hot dance and a lion dance. 'Wow, these are the robots from the Spring Festival Gala!' many children exclaimed.
The children then observed the training and demonstrations up close, experiencing the rapid development of AI in real-world settings. This educational excursion integrated cutting-edge technology into fun activities, allowing kids to immerse themselves in the charm of sports and technology.
The event was guided by the Beijing Women's Federation, hosted by the Beijing Women and Children Development Foundation, and supported by the state-owned Beijing State-owned Assets Management Company. Staying true to its public welfare mission, the program invites nearly 2,000 children and teenagers from Beijing. A spokesperson said, 'This study tour into the Winter Olympic venue guides young people to appreciate the mission of serving the country through science and fosters a rigorous scientific attitude.'
The Ice Ribbon continues to explore sustainable post-Olympic use. While hosting speed skating events and supporting professional training, it is building its 'sports + technology + culture' brand. Last August, the first World Humanoid Robot Games were successfully held here, and the venue is gradually becoming a gathering place for Beijing's robotics industry.
Beijing State-owned Assets Management Company has partnered with the Beijing Women and Children Development Foundation for seven consecutive years to create the 'Care for Growth, Light Up Hope' brand public welfare activities, benefiting over 30,000 people. On August 22, the second World Humanoid Robot Games will officially open at the Ice Ribbon, with over 300 teams and more than 1,000 robots expected to compete. This public welfare study tour has already opened a window into the future world of technology for these children.