Hey sports fans! Are you looking for something to watch that's inspirational, thrilling, and totally binge-worthy? Well, you've come to the right place. Netflix is a goldmine for sports documentaries, offering everything from in-depth looks at legendary athletes to nail-biting stories of underdog victories. So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and let's dive into some of the best sports documentaries Netflix has to offer.

Why Sports Documentaries are Awesome

Before we jump into the list, let's talk about why sports documentaries are so captivating. It's more than just watching games; it's about getting behind the scenes, understanding the dedication, the struggles, and the triumphs that define the world of sports. Sports documentaries offer a unique blend of storytelling, real-life drama, and emotional connection that you just can't find anywhere else.

They give you a glimpse into the lives of athletes, showing you the sacrifices they make, the challenges they overcome, and the sheer determination that drives them. You get to see the human side of these larger-than-life figures, making their achievements all the more impressive and relatable. Plus, these documentaries often highlight the importance of teamwork, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence – values that resonate far beyond the sports arena.

Whether you're a die-hard fan or just someone who enjoys a good story, sports documentaries have something for everyone. They can inspire you to chase your own goals, teach you valuable life lessons, and provide hours of entertainment. And with Netflix's extensive collection, you're sure to find something that piques your interest.

Our Top Picks for Sports Documentaries on Netflix

Alright, let's get to the good stuff! Here are some of the best sports documentaries you can stream on Netflix right now. These are in no particular order, because honestly, they're all fantastic in their own way.

1. The Last Dance

Michael Jordan. The Chicago Bulls. The 1990s. Need I say more? The Last Dance is a 10-part docuseries that chronicles Michael Jordan's final season with the Bulls, offering an unprecedented look at one of the greatest basketball teams of all time. This documentary is jam-packed with archival footage, behind-the-scenes moments, and interviews with key players, coaches, and commentators. The Last Dance isn't just a sports documentary; it's a cultural phenomenon. It delves into the complexities of Jordan's leadership, the rivalries that fueled the Bulls' dominance, and the personal sacrifices that came with chasing greatness.

The series masterfully weaves together the past and present, giving viewers a comprehensive understanding of the Bulls' dynasty and the forces that ultimately led to its demise. You'll see the intensity of Jordan's competitive spirit, the brilliance of Scottie Pippen, and the coaching genius of Phil Jackson. But you'll also see the human side of these legends, their vulnerabilities, and the toll that constant pressure took on their lives.

The Last Dance is a must-watch for any basketball fan, but it's also a compelling story for anyone interested in leadership, teamwork, and the pursuit of excellence. It's a reminder that greatness doesn't come easy, and that even the most talented individuals need the support of a strong team to achieve their goals. The series is a roller coaster of emotions, filled with highs and lows, triumphs and setbacks. It's a celebration of the Bulls' legacy and a testament to the enduring power of sports storytelling.

2. Formula 1: Drive to Survive

Gents, if you're into high-speed thrills and intense rivalries, Formula 1: Drive to Survive is the show for you. This series takes you behind the scenes of the Formula 1 World Championship, offering a raw and unfiltered look at the drivers, the teams, and the drama that unfolds both on and off the track. Each season follows the F1 circus around the globe, from the glamorous streets of Monaco to the high-altitude Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez in Mexico City. You'll get to see the incredible engineering that goes into building these high-performance machines, the strategic decisions that can make or break a race, and the sheer courage it takes to push these cars to their limits.

But Drive to Survive is more than just a show about racing; it's a character-driven drama that explores the personalities and relationships within the F1 world. You'll get to know the drivers as individuals, learning about their backgrounds, their motivations, and their fears. You'll see the camaraderie between teammates, the rivalries between competitors, and the pressure they face from their teams and sponsors.

The series is known for its dramatic storytelling, its stunning cinematography, and its ability to capture the intensity of the F1 experience. Whether you're a longtime fan of Formula 1 or a newcomer to the sport, Drive to Survive is sure to get your heart racing. It's a reminder that sports is about more than just winning and losing; it's about the human spirit, the pursuit of excellence, and the thrill of competition.

3. Cheer

Don't underestimate the world of competitive cheerleading! Cheer follows the Navarro College cheer team as they prepare for the National Cheerleading Championship in Daytona Beach, Florida. This docuseries is a surprisingly gripping look at the dedication, discipline, and sheer athleticism required to succeed in this demanding sport. Cheer is more than just a show about stunts and routines; it's a story about the personal journeys of these athletes, their struggles, and their dreams. You'll get to know the members of the Navarro cheer team as individuals, learning about their backgrounds, their motivations, and the challenges they've overcome to get where they are.

You'll see the intense training sessions, the grueling practices, and the emotional toll that the sport takes on their bodies and minds. But you'll also see the camaraderie between teammates, the support they provide each other, and the sense of family that they've created within the team. The series is known for its raw and honest portrayal of the cheerleading world, its inspiring stories, and its ability to capture the passion and dedication of these athletes. Whether you're a fan of cheerleading or not, Cheer is sure to leave you impressed and inspired. It's a reminder that hard work, dedication, and teamwork can lead to extraordinary achievements.

4. Icarus

Icarus starts as a documentary about doping in sports but quickly evolves into a real-life thriller involving international espionage and political intrigue. This Oscar-winning documentary follows filmmaker Bryan Fogel as he investigates the world of doping in sports, enlisting the help of a Russian scientist named Dr. Grigory Rodchenkov. What starts as a personal experiment quickly turns into a global scandal as Rodchenkov reveals a state-sponsored doping program within Russian sports.

Icarus is a gripping and eye-opening look at the dark side of sports, the lengths that some individuals and nations will go to in order to win, and the consequences of their actions. It's a story about truth, lies, and the power of whistleblowers to expose corruption. The documentary is known for its suspenseful storytelling, its shocking revelations, and its ability to shed light on a complex and controversial issue. Whether you're a sports fan or a follower of international politics, Icarus is sure to leave you stunned and questioning the integrity of the games we love.

5. Athlete A

Athlete A is a powerful and important documentary that tells the story of the USA Gymnastics sex abuse scandal. This film follows the investigative journalists at The Indianapolis Star as they uncover the widespread abuse perpetrated by team doctor Larry Nassar and the culture of silence that allowed it to continue for years. Athlete A is a harrowing and heartbreaking look at the devastating impact of abuse on young athletes, the courage of the survivors who came forward, and the systemic failures that enabled Nassar's crimes.

The documentary is known for its sensitive and respectful approach to the subject matter, its compelling storytelling, and its ability to hold those in power accountable. It's a reminder that sports should be a safe and supportive environment for all athletes, and that we must do everything we can to protect them from abuse. Athlete A is a must-watch for anyone who cares about sports, justice, and the well-being of young people.

More Great Sports Documentaries on Netflix

• Sunderland 'Til I Die: A docuseries following the Sunderland Association Football Club.
• Last Chance U: A look at junior college football.
• The Dawn Wall: Two rock climbers attempting to free climb El Capitan’s Dawn Wall.
• Rising Phoenix: The story of the Paralympic Games.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – some of the best sports documentaries you can find on Netflix. Whether you're into basketball, racing, cheerleading, or just a good story, there's something here for everyone. So, grab your snacks, settle in, and get ready to be inspired, thrilled, and maybe even a little bit emotional. Happy watching!