Brock University will soon become a testing ground for innovation when thousands of young competitors from across the globe arrive with their robots designed to tackle archaeology-themed challenges.
The Canada Cup of Robotics - Niagara 2026 will bring fast-paced competition, student teamwork and more than 5,000 participants, mentors and spectators to the University's main campus and the adjacent Canada Park Games from June 14 to 20.
The Canada Cup of Robotics - Niagara 2026 will be hosted at Brock University's main campus and the adjacent Canada Games Park from June 14 to 20.
Hosted by Brock in partnership with FIRST Robotics Canada, the international championship will feature competitions involving students from more than 30 countries. The FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) from June 14 to 16 will see participants aged 12 to 18 use their robots to compete in head-to-head challenges, while the FIRST LEGO League (FLL) from June 17 to 20 invites participants aged nine to 14 to design, build, test and program robots using LEGO Education robotics technology.
The event will transform athletic spaces and common areas into competition arenas where teams will collaborate under pressure with robots of their own design.
Alongside the matches themselves, the week will include educational exhibits, team socials, visits to Niagara's iconic attractions and volunteer-led programming designed to foster global collaboration through science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
For Brock's Faculty of Mathematics and Science, the championship reflects the University's commitment to advancing robotics and experiential STEM education.
"Hosting an international event of this scale supports Brock's role as a hub for scientific learning, collaboration and community engagement," said Peter Berg, Dean of the Faculty of Mathematics and Science. "We can't wait to welcome the world including these bright young competitors to Brock for the Canada Cup of Robotics."
Despite its name, organizers say the competition is designed to extend far beyond robotics. Students work in teams to develop technical skills while also learning communication, leadership and problem-solving in a fast-paced environment.
"We want students to leave inspired not only by robots but also by the connections they make and the confidence they build throughout the competition," said Paul Zelisko, Brock Chair and Professor of Chemistry and a member of the University's organizing committee for the event. "We hope the event motivates young learners to further pursue their passion."
Canada Cup of Robotics Niagara 2026
What: FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) and FIRST LEGO League (FLL) events
When: June 14 to 16 (FTC) and June 17 to 20 (FLL)
Where: Brock University's St. Catharines campus and the adjacent Canada Games Park, Niagara region
Who: More than 5,000 students, mentors and families from around the world
