About the Event
About the Lisbon Scrimmage
Portugal’s first FIRST Tech Challenge event — welcoming teams from across Europe
July 18, 2026 · 
TagusPark, Oeiras, Lisbon · 
FTC DECODE Season
Our Mission
The Lisbon Scrimmage 2026 was born from a simple belief: Portugal deserves an FTC community. Organized by FTC Team #33535 Thunderstrike and Team #34200 Heroes of the Sea — currently the only two FTC teams in Portugal — this event is designed to welcome international teams, showcase robotics to Portuguese schools and institutions, and plant the seeds for FTC to grow in this country.
Why This Event Matters
Portugal currently has just one active FTC team — and thousands of students who have never heard of FIRST Tech Challenge.
Real Match Experience
Give teams a meaningful offseason competition with genuine qualification match experience.
Inspire Portuguese Students
Show schools, universities, and technology parks what FTC looks like in action.
Build Partnerships
Build relationships with sponsors and institutions that can support future Portuguese FTC teams.
Seed New Teams
Goal: seed at least two new Portuguese FTC teams before the 2026–27 season begins.
Event Format
A full competitive FTC day following official event structure, adapted for a 12-team offseason.
Event Schedule
A scrimmage is an informal practice event where teams can test their robots, refine strategies, and gain experience in a competition-like environment. It allows participants to troubleshoot and improve their performance before official tournaments.
08.30 | Doors and pits open, team check-in
09.00 | Robot inspection and judge interviews begin
09.30 | Practice field opens
10.15 | Opening ceremony
10.35 | Drivers’ meeting
10.45 | Qualification matches (block 1)
12.15 | Lunch
13.00 | Qualification matches (block 2)
14.15 | Alliance selection
14.35 | Playoffs and finals
15.30 | Awards and closing ceremony
16.00 | Pits close
Ready to Compete?
Join us in Lisbon for a day of robotics, competition, and community.