Remote soccer match uses avatar robots for inclusive sports

Biogen Japan Ltd. and OryLab Inc. hosted a remote soccer exchange match using avatar robots last month in March. The “Biogen Cup / OriHime Soccer Exchange Match” featured ten teams, including nine regional selections from the National Institute of Technology (KOSEN) and one team of remote pilots. Each team consists of three members who operate OriHime robots to compete in five-minute exhibition matches.

Since 2020, Biogen Japan and OryLab have collaborated on the Biogen Cup Remote Sports Tournament. This initiative uses the OriHime avatar robot, developed by OryLab, to provide sports opportunities for individuals who face difficulties leaving their homes due to serious illnesses or disabilities. The programme has previously included sports such as soccer and boccia.

The organisers aim to demonstrate that technology allows individuals with disabilities to participate in sports, contributing to a more inclusive society. Furthermore, the event provides an opportunity for KOSEN students, who represent the future of Japanese manufacturing, to understand the social significance and rewards of developing robotics. The project encourages a shift in how society views disability and engineering.

OryLab’s philosophy is to eliminating human loneliness. The company develops technologies that expand options for people with limited mobility, including the OriHime-D robot for physical social participation and the Avatar Robot Cafe DAWN ver.β, where remote pilots serve customers.

The partners have announceed the 2026 Biogen Cup Remote Sports Tournament, which will feature two sports: OriHime Soccer, with its final round scheduled for Saturday, July 18, 2026, and Online Boccia, with finals taking place on Saturday, October 10, and Sunday, October 11, 2026.