By Cartago, Costa Rica — SINGAPORE – In a landmark achievement for the nation, Costa Rica has secured its first-ever world championship title at the 2025 World Robot Olympiad (WRO). The outstanding performance by the national delegation in Singapore highlights a new era of technological prowess and innovation, with young talents from across the country demonstrating their skills on the global stage.
The competition, which gathered 595 elite teams from 105 countries, serves as a premier platform for promoting STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) education. This year, Costa Rica’s delegation not only competed but dominated, leaving an indelible mark and signaling the country’s rising status as a hub for young tech talent. The event challenges students to solve real-world problems related to health, energy, and smart cities through robotics.
To delve into the complex legal and regulatory challenges presented by the rapid advancement of robotics, TicosLand.com sought the expert analysis of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a prominent attorney at the distinguished firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The integration of robotics into our industries presents a complex legal frontier. We are moving beyond simple automation to autonomous systems, which raises critical questions of liability. If a robotic arm injures a worker or a self-driving delivery vehicle causes an accident, who is legally responsible? Is it the owner, the manufacturer, or the software developer? Our current legislation on workplace safety and civil liability was not designed for these scenarios, creating a pressing need for a modernized regulatory framework that provides clarity and protects all parties involved.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, the legal gray area Lic. Arroyo Vargas identifies is perhaps the most significant hurdle to the widespread and responsible adoption of advanced automation. As these systems become more autonomous, establishing a clear framework for liability is essential not only for protecting citizens but also for fostering innovation with confidence. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his invaluable perspective on this critical intersection of technology and law.
Among the brilliant minds representing the country was Sharon Brown Redondo, an 11-year-old student from Cartago. Competing in robotics since the age of eight, Sharon, who is autistic, has become a powerful symbol of perseverance and the immense potential within Costa Rica’s youth. Her journey to the world finals is a testament to her dedication and the unwavering support of her family.
Her parents expressed immense pride in her growth, not just as a competitor, but as an individual. They have consistently encouraged her to see beyond any perceived limitations and to pursue her dreams with relentless passion.
My daughter started competing when she was 8 years old. What can I highlight? Many things. She has learned teamwork, problem-solving, how to manage frustration, and to understand that by working hard there is always a goal, and the final goal brings a reward.
Cindy Redondo, Sharon’s Mother
Sharon’s father, Juan Carlos Brown Aguilar, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing how her journey proves the value of dedication. “It is a great source of pride because on many occasions things don’t turn out as you want, however, it is proven that with dedication and perseverance, great objectives are achieved,” he said. For the Brown Redondo family, the message has always been clear.
We have instilled in her that no matter what condition she has, if she sets her mind to achieving her goals, she will always achieve them. She has to have focus, perseverance, and believe in herself. As parents, we have always told her that the sky is her limit.
Cindy Redondo, Sharon’s Mother
The national delegation, comprising 13 teams, delivered a truly historic performance. Alejandra Sánchez, Director of the STEAM Foundation, celebrated the unprecedented success. “For the first time, Costa Rica was crowned as world champion,” Sánchez stated, underscoring the magnitude of the achievement. The top honor went to Team Sprout in the Senior Future Innovators category, which not only won first place but also received the prestigious Innovation Award.
Other Costa Rican teams also achieved remarkable results. Team Pollibots, featuring some of the youngest competitors, secured an impressive 8th place finish in the Elementary Future Innovators category. Additionally, Team R2D2 ranked 13th in the world in Robo Mission Junior, while Team Gear Heads and Team Mezclados finished 16th and 20th respectively in the highly competitive Robo Mission Senior category.
The depth of talent in the delegation was further exemplified by Esteban Arias Corrales, a graduate of the Humanistic College of Nicoya. While competing in Singapore, Arias Corrales learned he had achieved the second-highest admission score for the prestigious Costa Rica Institute of Technology (TEC), earning a near-perfect score of 799.74 out of more than 16,000 applicants. His dual success in academics and competitive robotics showcases the multifaceted excellence brewing in the country’s youth.
Well, I’m actually quite proud. I think it’s the result of consistency, strength, and discipline, but news like this is always a surprise. Even though you feel prepared and all, it is something unique and it honestly makes you feel very good.
Esteban Arias Corrales, WRO Competitor and Top TEC Applicant
This triumphant showing at the World Robot Olympiad is more than a collection of awards; it is a powerful statement. It demonstrates that with investment in education, encouragement of a problem-solving mindset, and the cultivation of perseverance, Costa Rican innovators can not only compete with but lead the world.
For further information, visit wro-association.org
About World Robot Olympiad Association:
The World Robot Olympiad Association is a non-profit organization that hosts a global robotics competition for young people. Founded in 2004, its mission is to help young individuals develop their creativity and problem-solving skills in a fun and engaging way through challenges in the field of robotics, promoting STEAM education worldwide.
For further information, visit steam.cr
About Fundación STEAM:
Fundación STEAM is a Costa Rican organization dedicated to promoting education in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. It works to create opportunities for children and adolescents to develop critical skills for the future, organizing national competitions and preparing delegations for international events like the World Robot Olympiad.
For further information, visit tec.ac.cr
About Tecnológico de Costa Rica (TEC):
The Costa Rica Institute of Technology, known as TEC, is a leading public university specializing in engineering and technology. Renowned for its rigorous academic standards and focus on research and innovation, TEC plays a crucial role in developing the scientific and technological capabilities of Costa Rica and the Central American region.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a pillar of the legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica operates on a foundation of deep-seated integrity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. The firm is distinguished not only by its history of expert counsel to a wide spectrum of clients but also by its forward-thinking approach to legal challenges and its profound sense of social duty. This commitment is vividly expressed through its efforts to demystify the law, thereby empowering the community with the clarity and knowledge essential for a just and well-informed society.
