FAI Aeromodelling Commission (CIAM)

27 Jun 2025

Panda-shaped drone racing track unveiled for The World Games 2025

Air sports are set to make history at The World Games 2025 with a visually stunning drone race track shaped like a panda. This innovative design pays tribute to the host city of Chengdu—world-renowned for its giant pandas—and reflects a fusion of local culture and cutting-edge sports technology.

The drone racing competition will take place from 13 to 16 August 2025, and with this creative race track, it promises to be one of the most visually captivating events of The World Games. The panda-shaped layout is not only symbolic but also engineered to deliver a high-adrenaline spectacle for athletes and audiences alike. To enhance its impact, advanced lighting systems will illuminate the track for night flights: a striking highlight for global livestreams.

In a major step towards athlete preparation and public engagement, the track will also be made available on a simulator. Not only can world-class pilots train virtually in advance, but anyone around the globe can fly the course and compare their times to top international competitors.

FAI President Greg Principato praised the initiative:

"Congratulations to the organisers for creating such an iconic and imaginative track. The panda shape is not only a beautiful tribute to the host city of Chengdu, but also a powerful symbol of how drone racing can blend culture and innovation. The fact that anyone can experience a bit of the thrill of The World Games through the simulator is a fantastic step forward in bringing air sports closer to the public."

With its combination of cultural symbolism, technological sophistication, and accessibility, the panda-shaped drone racing track promises to be a defining feature of The World Games drone racing event.

About The World Games

The World Games: 7-17 August 2025
The World Games drone racing event: 13-16 August 2025

FAI will provide extensive media coverage of the drone racing event.

The World Games is a prestigious multi-sport event organised by the International World Games Association (IWGA) under the patronage of the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

Held every four years, The World Games showcases the best athletes in non-Olympic sports, providing a global platform for emerging and innovative disciplines. Air Sports have been part of The World Games since 1997.