
Netflix secures a hat-trick of Brazil soccer documentaries with Ronaldinho headlining
Just in time for the 2026 World Cup, Netflix is preparing to launch three back-to-back Brazilian soccer documentaries, kicking the streak off with Ronaldinho: The One and Only.
According to an exclusive Deadline report, Ronaldinho: The One and Only will be followed by USA 94: Brazil’s Return to Glory and The Root of the Game, which will premiere in the months leading up to this year’s World Cup, starting in June.
Scheduled for a release on April 16th, Ronaldinho: The One and Only is a three-part documentary about the eponymous football star, featuring never-before-seen archival footage blended with exclusive access to his present life. The Brazilian footballer won the prestigious Ballon d’Or and was the star player of mega-club FC Barcelona.
Canal Azul and Trailer Films are producing the forthcoming documentary, capturing how an ordinary boy from Porto Alegre went on to rule the dream theatre of the sport, becoming one of the most legendary players football has ever seen.
Next in line is USA 94: Brazil’s Return to Glory, which recounts Brazil’s fourth World Cup win in 1994. Premiering on May 7th, the Netflix documentary features Brazilian players who took the team to victory alongside their on-field rivals.
The producers have also gotten their hands on previously unseen behind-the-scenes footage, primarily recorded by athletes throughout the tournament, which culminated in Brazil’s return to the top of the sport. Luis Ara will direct the documentary with Trailer Films.
The third and final documentary coming your way this year is The Root of the Game, slated for release on Netflix on June 8th. Set against the Super Copa Pioneer, São Paulo’s largest and most prestigious amateur soccer tournament, the docu-series offers an unexpected behind-the-scenes glimpse at the competition, featuring players and coaches with dreams larger than life.
Ginga Pictures is producing The Root of Game alongside R21. Alec Cutter will direct the Netflix documentary.
Even before this announcement, Netflix has had plenty of original productions coming out of Brazil. But now, Netflix is highlighting the country and its love for football and its iconic yellow-clad national team.
“This sport creates a unique connection with audiences,” said Elisa Chalfon, Head of Nonfiction at Netflix Brazil. “These are stories born on the streets, in neighbourhoods, within families, spanning generations, and reinforcing a sense of pride. This is an important pillar for Netflix, and we remain committed to investing in original productions that captivate audiences – both longtime sports fans and those who aren’t yet.”
So, if you haven’t already, save the dates on your calendar because this World Cup is shaping up to be bigger than we thought, thanks to Netflix.