IBM AI Racing League – Country Challenge 2026 is a global IBM competition in which student teams build an autonomous AI driver and compete on a virtual racetrack.

This is not just an “AI race,” but a realistic simulation of working in the tech industry:
build → test → explain → defend your strategy.

Competition details can be found in the introductory presentation: IBM AI Racing League Framework

What Is the Challenge About?

Teams are required to:

• program an autonomous driver in Python,
• use the TORCS (The Open Race Car Simulator) environment,
• apply IBM Granite models,
• achieve the best possible lap time on the Corkscrew track,
• prepare materials presenting their solution and team strategy.

In addition to technical performance, the following will be evaluated:

• strategic approach,
• teamwork,
• technical communication,
• quality of presentation and defense of the solution,
• effective use of IBM Granite and IBM SkillsBuild.

Who Can Participate?

The competition is open to students of all disciplines – not only technical fields.

Teams: approximately 5 members (maximum 10 members).

This is an ideal challenge for students who want to:

• develop AI-related competencies,
• gain experience in teamwork within a technology project,
• learn the basics of training game AI bots,
• build practical skills in AI system development,
• present their work to IT industry experts.

How to Participate?

To take part in the IBM AI Racing League – Country Challenge 2026, participants must:

1. Review the introductory presentation.
2. Complete the registration form
   (each participant submits the form individually, providing the team name and university).
3. Complete the required IBM SkillsBuild training (IBM Granite).
4. Build an autonomous driver (Python + TORCS).
5. Achieve the fastest qualifying lap time.
6. Prepare submission materials:
• video of the fastest lap,
• team presentation video,
• link to the project repository including documentation.

Key Dates

• February 23 – Registration opens in Poland
• March 15 – May 15 – Suggested submission window
• May 24 – Announcement of finalists
• June 8–12 – Finals and award ceremony

League Structure

The league follows a progressive structure:

• Tier 1 – Local Country Leagues (national qualification – Country Challenge)
• Tier 2 – European Championship (summer 2026)
• Tier 3 – World Level (beginning of the winter semester)