Resolution criteria:

This market will resolve to "Yes" if, before January 1, 2027, a humanoid robot completes a full marathon (42.195 kilometers) in a time faster than the current official human marathon world record. The current men's marathon world record is 2 hours, 0 minutes, and 35 seconds, set by Kelvin Kiptum at the Chicago Marathon on October 8, 2023. The current women's marathon world record is 2 hours, 9 minutes, and 56 seconds, set by Ruth Chepngetich at the Chicago Marathon on October 13, 2024. For the purpose of this market, the robot must complete the marathon in a time faster than 2:00:35. The robot's performance must be officially documented and recognized by a reputable organization or governing body in the field of robotics or athletics.

Background:

Humanoid robots have recently begun participating in marathon events. On April 19, 2025, China organized the first half-marathon featuring humanoid robots alongside human runners in Beijing's Yizhuang district. The robot Tiangong Ultra completed the 21-kilometer race in 2 hours, 40 minutes, and 42 seconds, surpassing some human participants but still significantly slower than elite human marathoners. (reuters.com)

The current men's marathon world record is held by Kelvin Kiptum, who ran 2:00:35 at the Chicago Marathon on October 8, 2023. (theguardian.com) The women's marathon world record is held by Ruth Chepngetich, who completed the Chicago Marathon on October 13, 2024, in 2:09:56. (lemonde.fr)

Given the rapid advancements in robotics and artificial intelligence, there is growing interest in whether humanoid robots can achieve or surpass human athletic performance in endurance events like marathons.

• Update 2025-04-20 (PST) (AI summary of creator comment): Assistance Allowance Clarification

  • The robot may be assisted during the marathon.

  • Remote control by a human is permitted.

  • Battery replacement by humans is allowed.

  • Humans may provide assistance if the robot falls.