Sports Media Report
ESPN Films and Wakai announce the global premiere of FC Barcelona: Soñar, jugar y ganar, a 45-minute documentary chronicling the ascent of FC Barcelona to one of the most decorated women’s clubs in European football and a global symbol of excellence, identity and empowerment.
The documentary premieres in the U.S. on Saturday, May 23 at 10 a.m. ET on ESPN2, ESPN Deportes and streaming on ESPN+. Internationally, it will be available on ESPN linear and on Disney+ in select markets beginning Friday, May 22.
Structured in three acts – “Dream,” “Play,” and “Win” – the film tells the story of a group of women who redefined perceptions of football, broke barriers and became role models for an entire generation. It follows the team’s evolution from its early years to the club turning professional in 2015 and its ascent as a three-time UEFA Women’s Champions League champion as it battled European archrival Olympique de Lyon in four unforgettable finals. Through candid interviews and intimate access, FC Barcelona: Soñar, jugar y ganar captures the sacrifices, setbacks and triumphs that helped define the club’s spirit.
The premiere arrives ahead of the UEFA Women’s Champions League final, where FC Barcelona will face Olympique Lyonnais on Saturday, May 23 at noon ET on ESPN Deportes, at Ullevål Stadion in Oslo, Norway. ESPN will provide coverage of the final across the U.S., Europe, Latin America, Sub-Saharan Africa, Australia and New Zealand.
“The ascent of FC Barcelona has stirred a cultural movement, inspiring a new generation of fans,” said Freddy Rolón, Head of Global Sports & Talent at ESPN.” “As ESPN continues to expand its global futbol storytelling efforts, this documentary offers a unique opportunity to go beyond the pitch and showcase the journey of a team that has become a symbol of excellence in women’s sports.”
“This documentary reflects more than two years of work by the Wakai team, driven by our passion for discovering and telling stories that transcend sport”, said David Quintana, CEO of Wakai. “Developing this project alongside a partner like ESPN and Disney not only gives us an incredible opportunity but also allows audiences around the world to experience a story, and a team, as special as this one.”
