An Israeli youth robotics team forfeited their spot in the final round of an international robotics championship in Houston, Texas this past weekend, citing their commitment to observing Shabbat.

The team, Trigon 5990, from the AMIT High School for Boys in Modiin was in 15th place out of 600 competitors entering the final day of the FIRST Robotics Championship, an elite tournament drawing over 19,000 students from 66 countries.

But because the final round took place on Saturday, the Jewish day of rest, the team withdrew — just as they had in 2023 under similar circumstances.

Observant Jews refrain from various activities and such as using electronics, writing, or cooking during the 24 hours of Shabbat starting from sundown on Friday.

“We are stepping back with our heads held high and with pride,” the students wrote in a public statement. “We wish all teams the best of luck and continued success.”

In place of competing, Trigon set up a small booth outside the venue. On the table was an Israeli flag, a small goblet of grape juice, challah bread, and a sign that read, “Why aren’t we here today? Because today is Shabbat!” The sign included a QR code directing people to learn more about Shabbat observance.

Image - The Trigon robotics team at the FIRST Championship in Houston on April 18, 2025. Credit: Courtesy of Trigon Group.