2026 Asia Pacific Open Championship
FIRST Tech Challenge
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An Unforgettable FTC Championship Experience
The FIRST Tech Challenge Asia Pacific Open Championship is a truly open, international event, welcoming all registered FIRST Tech Challenge teams. Teams can submit an Expression of Interest from November in the year prior, with official registration open until April.
The event runs over three exciting days, beginning with registration on the opening afternoon, followed by two days of official FIRST Tech Challenge competition. The championship concludes with a celebratory closing ceremony, recognising team achievements and community spirit. Beyond the competition field, teams will also enjoy a range of fun and engaging activities, making the Asia Pacific Open Championship an unforgettable FTC experience.
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Event Details
Friday 3 July - Sunday 5 July, 2026
Capacity for 42 FIRST Tech Challenge teams
9:00am - 5pm (Times will vary depending on day)
1 Central Courtyard (1CC) Macquarie University, Macquarie Park NSW 2113
$180 (AUD) per person - Cost includes competition participation and event gift pack. Team students and at least one mentor/coach must register. Please note that this cost does not include meals during the event.
Season theme will be DECODE
Starting November 2025, the FIRST Tech Challenge Asia Pacific Open Championship 2026 is taking RSVP applications from FTC teams around the world that meet the following criteria:
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All teams officially registered with FIRST for the DECODE℠ season are eligible to participate.
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Registration is based on the order that RSVPs are received.
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The event can accommodate a maximum of 42 teams.
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Teams who RSVP after the 42 team cut-off will be placed on a waiting list in order of RSVP.
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The 42 RSVP'd teams will receive an official registration and payment link in January 2026 to finalise participation.
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If you are registering for more than one team, please submit a separate form for each team.
Below are some recommendations for accommodation for teams that will be attending the Asia Pacific Open Championships. We strongly suggest that teams book early.
Nearby hotels
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Mercure, Macquarie Park: Directly on the Macquarie University campus - 10 minute walk to venue.
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Meriton Suites, North Ryde: Across the street from the shopping centre - 15 minute walk to venue.
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Holiday Inn Express, North Ryde: Down the road from shopping centre - 20 minute walk to venue.
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Courtyard by Marriott, North Ryde: Across the street from fast food outlets - 30 minute walk to venue.
Budget hotels
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ibis Hotel, Thornleigh: Located near train station and grocery store - 20 minute drive to venue.
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Ascot Motor Inn, Wahroonga: Pool and restaurant - 20 minute drive to venue.
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Seranin Motel, Gordon: Offers group bookings - 15 minute drive to venue.
On-campus accommodation
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Robert Menzies College, Macquarie Park: Robert Menzies College is a student dormitory that offers short-stay accommodation and group discounts - 10 minute walk to venue.
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Macquarie University Village, Macquarie Park: MQ Village is student accommodation that offers short stays - 10 minute walk to venue.
If you are not renting cars, there are many options for public transport in the area. Please note that for all public transport, you will need an Opal card. See below for details.
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Parking: A link will be emailed to attendees to register for free parking.
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Opal Card information: You have the option to get a physical Opal card, or 'tap and pay' from your phone.
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Transport NSW: Transport NSW offers a 'trip planner' which will map out a route via public transport for you; the website also offers route maps for buses and trains.
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Macquarie University Metro Station: Across the street from the shopping centre - 10 minute walk to venue.
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Taxi Rank, Macquarie Shopping Centre: There is a taxi stop located at the bus interchange at Macquarie Shopping Centre if you are looking for more direct and private transport.
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Uber: Uber is an alternative to taxis that can be called via the Uber app.
In 2026, meals are not included as part of event registration. Please plan to organise your own food throughout the competition.
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Macquarie University Hub: Located at venue with many takeaway food options, including:
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Cult Bake Bar: cafe with breakfast and lunch options
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Chatime: popular tea chain
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Soul Origin: cafe offering a meal deal of wraps and a drink for $12.90
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Roll'd: Vietnamese takeaway offering a meal deal of 3 rice paper rolls and a drink for $15
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Indi GoGo: Indian takeaway
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Ubar: open 12 noon to 6pm, offering a meal deal of a large margherita pizza for $12
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Macquarie Shopping Centre: Macquarie Shopping Centre offers a food court and many sit-down dining options as well as grocery stores - 15 minute walk to venue.
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Eden Park Centre: Multiple food chains such as McDonalds, KFC and Subway - 10 minute drive to venue.
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Woolworths Marsfield: Additional grocery store to Macquarie Shopping Centre.
Relive the energy and excitement of last year’s Asia Pacific Open Championship. Teams from across the region came together for three unforgettable days of robotics, innovation, and collaboration.
From high-intensity robot matches to cultural exchanges and exciting adventures, the event captured everything that makes FIRST Tech Challenge special. Explore the highlights below — and get ready for what’s coming in Sydney in 2026.
