Racing Drones Market Size Growth - By Drone Type (RTF, BNF, ATF), By Component Type (Airframe, Motors, Camera/Sensors, Propellers, Battery, Flight Controller, Others), By Application (Rotor Cross, Drag Racing, Time Trial), and By Region: Statistics Reports, Supply & Demand Analysis, Global Opportunity 2025-2032

Global Market Synopsis, Forecast, Trend, and Growth Up To 2032

The Racing Drones Market size was valued at US$ 6.02 Bn in 2025, it is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 19.07% from 2025 to 2032 and reach US$ 19.31 Bn by the end of 2032. The growth in drone technology is the primary reason the market is boosting. In addition, improving accessibility of FPV racing along with increasing use of drones in sports is also going to boost the market growth.

Market Overview

Racing drone is a small unmanned aerial vehicle with a front-faced camera used on high-speed racing motors for drone racing competitions. This device operates by a remote control given on the drone by wearing a head-mounted display control. It is also applied in racing competitions such as drone racing World Cups and Multigap drone racing because it comes with the features of high battery voltage, high speed, and a camera with wide-angle features. These devices are applied in defense and the military because they come in different sizes.

Impact of AI on Drone Technology

The introduction of AI in drones will significantly drive the growth of the racing drones market. The foremost positive factor that influences the market is AI-enhanced autonomy in drone technology. Besides, AI algorithms help to set tough tasks independently for drones, such as navigation in hard environments and hurdles without any kind of intervention from humans. This enhances the intelligence of drones, enabling analysis of information in real time and instant decisions.

• In July 2024, many startups in Ukraine had programmed AI systems that would help fly a vast fleet of drones, taking warfare into unexplored territory as a combatant race aims to gain a technological advantage in battle.

Factors Boosting Racing Drones Market Growth

• High interest and participation in drone racing as a sport are likely to drive market growth in the near term.
• The racing drones market provides huge opportunities for enterprises and entrepreneurs, which in turn increases the market size.
• Size of the market for aftermarket parts and accessories is gaining growth and is expected to contribute to market growth soon.

Top Key Players

Some of the major players functioning in the racing drones industry include:

• Airjugar Technology Co. Ltd.
• ImmersionRC Limited
• mjxrc.net
• Parrot Drones SAS
• Autel Robotics
• machine
• Guangzhou Walkera Technology CO. LTD
• Hubsan
• RotorX
• Spin Master (Air Hogs)
• Skyrocket LLC (Sky Viper)
• UVify Inc.
• 3D Robotics
• DJI
• SkyTech
• Lumenier
• GoPro
• Storm
• Gemo Copter
• TBS and YUNEEC

Segment Analysis

Drones by Type

RTF led the racing drones market throughout 2024. The reason behind the dominance of the market segment lies in the increasing demand among enthusiast types who fall into the category of "Ready-To-Fly" drone type or first-time flyers. RTF drones have almost nothing to be set prior to flight, a perfect one for amateur pilots and experienced enthusiasts who would want direct aerial action. In addition, improvements in battery life, speed, and agility also fueled the demand for RTF drones.

The growth rate of the ATF segment is expected to be the highest in the forecast period. Growth of the segment can be linked to the increase in racing events, such as the drone Champions League, Drone Racing League, and Drone World Championship, which combine pilots from all over the world into a competition, hence driving the expansion of ARF drones. As a result, the ATF category has added flying experience and skilful growth of pilots along with racing techniques.

Component Type Segment

The airframe segment captured the largest share of the market for racing drones in 2024 and has the largest market share. This is because there is increasing demand for weight-sensitive, high-performance frames that can handle all forces related to racing. To meet this demand, the segment developed new and improved frame designs with better performance, flexibility in terms of customization, and durability. In addition, the airframe forms part of racing drones and may affect its agility.

The camera/sensors market for racing drones is expected to increase at a significant rate during the forecast period. The growth of this market segment can be associated with higher demand for obstacle avoidance, navigation, and data collection. Drones can use optical sensors such as red, green, and blue alongside infrared cameras and stereo cameras to obtain visual data. Cameras and sensors also offer visuals for pilots and take pictures as a record.

Application Segment

The rotor cross segment held the highest market share in 2024. This is because rotor cross is a highly popular sport. Trends in Rotor Cross competitions are marked by fierce competition, which is thrilling and of high stakes. These drones have features that enhance battery life, speed, and maneuverability to meet a very high requirement of sports. Additionally, the number of the organized competitions and events may drive the growth in that segment.

Growth in the segment can be attributed to the growing autonomous drone racing programs along with technological superiority through enhanced battery life, camera image quality, and high motor speed of drones. Additionally, the market for racing drones is picking pace, driven by the initiation of several research programs in the space.

Market Scope

Racing Drones Market Critical Insights

• North America held the largest market share of 39% in 2024.
• Asia Pacific to exhibit the highest growth rate during the forecast period.
• RTF had the highest market share in 2024, in terms of drone types in the racing drones market.
• ATF to mark the highest growth rate over the forecast period in terms of drone types.
• By component type, the airframe segment accounted for the largest market share in 2024.
• By component type, the camera/sensors segment is likely to expand at a considerable rate during the forecast period.
• By application, the rotor cross segment accounted for the market share in 2024 and dominated the racing drones market.
• By application, the drag racing segment is likely to expand considerably during the studied period.

Market Dynamics

Driver

Increasing International Racing Drone Events and Leagues

The rising international racing drone events and leagues is anticipated to drive the growth of this racing drones market. With increasing international exposure to drone racing, more high-profile competitions and professional leagues will attract greater media attention, sponsorships, and a broader audience. Furthermore, the expansion internationally may also increase the popularity of the sport further accelerating penetration demand for race drones and training programs.

Constraint

High Maintenance Costs

High maintenance costs related to the sport may significantly curtail market growth in racing drones. Investing in a competitive racing drone along with the extra peripherals like FPV goggles and controllers is relatively expensive for a newcomer to the market. Moreover, the cost of frequent equipment maintenance to remain in the game as well as the crash repairs do not make the market any more conducive to penetration.

Continuous Developments and Launches of Commerical Drones

Commerical drones brought about changes in all sectors due to low maintenance costs, ease of deployment, and hovering. Now, they are widely used for remote sensing, wireless coverage, good delivery, security, civil infrastructure inspection, and precision agriculture. Commercial drone manufacturers are also increasing the product line to make market attention from various sectors.

Regional Analysis

North America was the first market for racing drones in 2024. The region's dominance can be ascribed to the rising Competitors' focus on developing more agile, faster, and more customized drones to meet the requirements of racing enthusiasts. In addition to this, racing events are becoming a vital event in the entertainment and media industry to cater to the need created by the growing fan following, specifically in the US region.

The Asia Pacific region would experience the highest growth during the projection period. The growth of the region can be attributed to the increase in the number of drone racing events, which is further backed by a comprehensive framework of regulations that ensures safety in sport. Furthermore, the growing availability of drone racing accessories and kits makes it even more accessible to end users at all levels. Its focus on technological advances is one reason for seeing growth in the expansion of the racing drones market even in the growth regions.

New Improvements

• On March 2023, Autel Robotics launched its "EVO II Pro Racing Edition Drone," which has strong motors and enhanced flight stability to compete in racing.
• DJI updated its "FPV Drone" with improved range and video transmission in May 2023, focusing on racing as well as freestyle pilots.
• In July 2022, Microsoft introduced a new simulator that should be teaching AI drone systems how to act. Microsoft AirSim is a complex virtual environment designed to help AI engineers test and refine their algorithms in a safe, controlled setting before applying them in practical applications.

Segments covered in this report:

By Drone Type

• RTF
• BNF
• ATF

By Component Type

• Airframe
• Motors
• Camera/Sensors
• Propellers
• Battery
• Flight Controller
• Others

By Application

• Rotor Cross
• Drag Racing
• Time Trial

By Geography

• North America
• Asia Pacific
• Europe
• Latin America
• Middle East and Africa