Official Q&A: VEX V5 Robotics Competition 2025-2026: Push Back

Rule GG11 states: Controllers must stay connected to the Field. Prior to the beginning of each Match, Drive Team Members must plug their V5 Controller into the Field’s control system. This cable must remain plugged in for the duration of the Match, and may not be removed until the “all-clear” has been given for Drive Team Members to retrieve their Robots.

Rule GG12 states: Autonomous means “no humans.” During the Autonomous Period, Drive Team Members are not permitted to interact with the Robots in any way, directly or indirectly.

Rule R11 states: Use a “Competition Template” for programming. The Robot must be programmed to follow control directions provided by the VEXnet Field Controllers or Smart Field Control system.

Provided that a Team's Controller is connected to the field controller, are Teams allowed to voluntarily choose not to run a program during the Autonomous program? This means the Team will not click the "Start" button on their program prior to the match, and will click the "Start" button after the Autonomous period has concluded. The Team will still abide by GG11 (controllers connected to the field), GG12 (not interact with their robot during the autonomous period), and R11 (the robot will not be controllable during the disabled period, will simulate running an empty program during autonomous, and will start driving as normal during driver control).

Thank you!