Watch: Moment robot attempts to beat Usain Bolt's 100m record

August 22, 2026 - 17:54

A humanoid robot at China's World Humanoid Robot Games tried to take on one of the greatest sprint records in history, and while it did not quite beat Usain Bolt's legendary 100-meter time, the attempt turned heads. Smartphone maker Honor, which sponsored the event, released footage of the robot charging down the track, clocking a time that came close to the Jamaican sprinter's world record of 9.58 seconds.

The robot, built with advanced joint motors and carbon-fiber limbs, hit a top speed that briefly matched Bolt's early acceleration, but it stumbled in the final 20 meters, crossing the line in 9.89 seconds. That is still faster than any human has ever run without Bolt, and it marks a major step for bipedal locomotion in competitive settings. Honor said the goal was not just to break a record, but to test how far robotic agility and balance have come.

The event, held in Beijing, drew engineers and robotics fans from around the world. Some spectators cheered as the machine leaned forward at the finish, its metal feet pounding the track. While the record stands for now, the robot's performance suggests that the gap between human and machine speed is closing quickly. Organizers say they plan to hold a rematch next year, with an upgraded model that may finally take down Bolt's mark.