Record number of teams in the Self Driving Challenge 2026
12 teams are taking part this year
In 2026, no fewer than 12 teams will take part in the Self Driving Challenge, a record number of participants. These teams come from 10 different schools. Notably, two teams are participating for the first time. There is also, for the very first time, an international entry: Team Alaz from Turkey. This marks the growth of the challenge into a competition with international appeal.
Two categories
This year, 5 teams will compete in the closed category and 7 teams in the open category. In the closed category, students work with a kart provided by the RDW, which they are allowed to program themselves. The team from Turkey will also compete in this category. In the open category, teams fully design, build, and program their own vehicle.
International interest
This year, the Self Driving Challenge attracted interest from several international teams. Teams from India, the United States, and Turkey expressed interest. Ultimately, only the Turkish team will participate, but it is clear that the SDC is regarded as a serious competition both nationally and internationally.
About the challenge
The challenge will officially kick off on February 12, 2026, with a festive opening event in Lelystad. From that moment on, teams will be able to test their vehicle weekly in Lelystad. The grand final will take place on June 16, where teams will compete for the coveted cup. During this final event, the vehicles must complete a course featuring realistic traffic obstacles. These include stopping at a pedestrian traffic light, avoiding an inflatable car, and staying neatly within the course boundaries.
New this year is that the obstacles will no longer have fixed positions in advance. In previous years, obstacles were placed in fixed locations on the course, allowing teams to prepare for them throughout the challenge. This year, the locations of the obstacles will only be announced 24 hours in advance, adding extra tension and challenge for all participants.