[EricH]

You'd need a worldwide competition, first. You don't get a sport into the Olympics without that, assuming there's a spot for a new event. And, at FRC scale, that's a little harder to pull off due to funding, transport to current competitions, etc., at least at this time. See FLL, FTC, VRC.


Now, if robotics were to be a serious Olympic event, here's the way I'd do it.

First, worldwide competition with something like the VEX kits or LEGO Mindstorms. Doesn't have to be those kits per se, but something like them, at least the original kits. FTC could also work. Get that set up, with various groups in various countries. Why those kits? You'll see...

Second, each country picks its team in its own way: All-Star, country champions, however. A team of no more than X can be sent, with Y alternates. Minimum/maximum ages TBD; it might be possible to send 2-3 teams in different levels. However, qualifying a country to the Olympics in the event may need the use of some multi-country qualifiers.

Now, here's the twist. Teams go in with no idea of what they'll be playing. That's right, the Olympics start and that's when "Kickoff" is. Build time, one week. That's why I'm proposing something on the order of VEX/FTC--you can do that practically overnight if necessary. Practice time, one day. Compete for 2-3 days. Changes unlimited, but you do need to make all your matches to go on. If alliances are used, then they're same-country alliances, AKA build-your-own-partner; otherwise, it's 1-on-1. (Or, every team plays with and against every other country at least once.)

At least, that's how I'd do it. Call me crazy if you like.