US OPEN CHAMPIONSHIPS 2026
September 25–27, 2026
Ontario Convention Center, Ontario, CA
Choose Your Challenge
Six unique categories designed to challenge different skills and interests. Following the official WRO rules for robot sizes and dimensions is crucial across all categories.
RoboMission
Design, construct, and program an autonomous robot to solve specific challenges on a field. Because the field is set up randomly each round, the robot needs to make its own decisions during the run.
General Rules (All Age Groups)Elementary
Perfect introduction to competitive robotics. Program an autonomous robot to complete themed missions on a challenge field.
Junior
More complex challenges requiring advanced programming. Robots must make autonomous decisions based on randomized field conditions.
Senior
The most challenging missions requiring sophisticated robot design and advanced programming strategies for complex field scenarios.
Starter
An entry-level RoboMission-style challenge with simplified rules, designed specifically for new competitors to get their first taste of competitive robotics.
Starter Challenge
Simplified autonomous robot missions tailored for young beginners. A great way to build confidence before moving into RoboMission categories.
RoboSports
A fast-paced, exciting game where two teams each have two autonomous robots on the field competing in a sports-style match. Robots can be built from all materials with no limitation on motors, sensors, or cameras.
RoboSports – Double Tennis
Teams design two robots that compete against robots from another team in an exciting head-to-head sports game format.
Future Innovators
A project-based competition where students create their own innovative intelligent robotics solution relating to the current season theme. Teams present to judges in a booth setting.
General Rules (All Age Groups)Elementary
Create innovative robotics solutions to real-world problems. Present your project to judges in a booth setting.
Junior
Teams present their project and robot to judges who evaluate innovation, entrepreneurship, and problem-solving skills.
Senior
Advanced innovation projects with emphasis on entrepreneurial thinking and sophisticated technical solutions.
Future Engineers
An exciting category for older students that brings current research challenges into schools and teaches an engineering workflow for solving real-world autonomous vehicle problems.
Future Engineers – Self-Driving Cars
Develop self-driving car solutions that navigate a track with obstacles, demonstrating advanced autonomous vehicle concepts.
Sumobots
Build, code, and battle with the USEL SumoBot Kit in exciting sumo-style matches. A thrilling head-to-head competition that tests both engineering and strategy.
SumoBot Battle
Program your SumoBot to outmaneuver and push your opponent out of the ring. Fast-paced matches that combine strategy, sensor use, and quick thinking.
Event Details
📅 September 25–27, 2026
Sept 25: Practice & Build Day | Sept 26–27: Competition & Awards
📍 Location
Ontario Convention Center
2000 E Convention Center Way
Ontario, CA 91764
⏰ Event Schedule
Sept 25: Practice / Build Day
Sept 26: Competition Day
Sept 27: Competition & Awards / Field Trips
🤖 About the Event
Join teams from across the Americas for the premier robotics competition! WRO Americas Open 2026 brings together young innovators to showcase their skills in robotics, engineering, and problem solving.
Event Pricing
All fees are in USD. Registration covers access to the full three-day event including meals, transportation, and more.
Please note: Registration invitations are sent directly to qualifying teams. This is not an open registration — teams must earn a qualifying spot through a sanctioned WRO event to be eligible.
What's Included in the Fee
Note: Airport transportation is provided from Ontario International Airport (ONT) only — not from LAX.
Hotel accommodations are not included in the registration fee and must be booked separately. See our partner hotel rates below.
Hotel Recommendations
We've partnered with six hotels near the Ontario Convention Center at exclusive group rates. All hotel dates cover Thursday 9/24 through Sunday 9/27 with checkout on Monday 9/28.
Direct booking links coming soon — check back for updates!
Delta by Marriott
$179 /night + taxHoliday Inn Ontario Airport
$169 /night + taxSheraton Ontario Airport
$145 /night + taxBest Western Plus
From $119 /night + taxComfort Suites Ontario Convention Center
$139 /night + taxQuality Inn
$124 /night + taxAirport Recommendations
✈️ Ontario International Airport (ONT)
Distance from Convention Center: 1.5 miles (5 minutes by car)
The closest airport to the Ontario Convention Center, offering numerous domestic flights and select international destinations. Complimentary shuttle service to partner hotels is included with your registration fee.
✈️ Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
Distance from Convention Center: Approximately 60 miles (1 to 1.5 hours by car)
Major international hub with extensive domestic and international flight options. Please note that complimentary airport shuttle service is not provided from LAX — transportation must be arranged independently.
Dining Options Nearby
Ontario and the surrounding area offer diverse dining options within walking distance or a short drive from the Convention Center.
🍽️ The Old Spaghetti Factory
Distance: 1.2 miles from Convention Center
Cuisine: Italian
Family friendly restaurant known for its classic Italian dishes, complete meals with salad, bread, and ice cream. Located at Ontario Mills.
🍽️ Yard House
Distance: 1.3 miles from Convention Center
Cuisine: American, Sports Bar
Upscale casual dining with an extensive menu featuring American classics, over 100 beers on tap, and a vibrant atmosphere.
🍽️ BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse
Distance: 1.8 miles from Convention Center
Cuisine: American, Brewery
Casual dining featuring handcrafted beer, deep dish pizza, and a diverse menu. Great for groups and families.
🍽️ Buca di Beppo
Distance: 1.2 miles from Convention Center
Cuisine: Italian (Family style)
Authentic Italian cuisine served family style, perfect for sharing with your team. Known for generous portions and festive atmosphere.
