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A documentary about Ronaldinho Gaúcho Leads Netflix's Slate Of Soccer-Related Releases In 2026
São Paulo, March 12, 2026 - From the genius that dazzled stadiums around the world to the dirt fields where new talents are born, Brazilian soccer is the common thread running through three new documentaries from Netflix in Brazil: Kicking things off, the three-episode miniseries Ronaldinho Gaúcho (Ronaldinho: The One and Only) premieres on April 16 and dives into the journey of one of the greatest players of all time, with exclusive access, never-before-seen material, great victories, delicate moments, and testimonials from iconic figures in the sport such as Lionel Messi, Neymar Jr., Roberto Carlos, Gilberto Silva, Felipão, Carles Puyol, Galvão Bueno, among many others. Next, Tetra: Acreditar de Novo (USA 94: Brazil's Return to Glory) arrives on May 7 and revisits Brazil's 1994 World Cup triumph using previously unseen footage. Closing out the lineup, Várzea: Onde Nasce o Futebol (The Root Of The Game) premieres on June 8 and reveals the world of amateur várzea soccer in São Paulo, the cradle of talents like Cafu and Raphinha, who revisit their roots to share how várzea shaped their paths to global success.
"This sport creates a unique connection with audiences. These are stories born on the streets, in neighborhoods, within families, spanning generations and reinforcing a sense of pride," says Elisa Chalfon, Head of Nonfiction at Netflix Brazil. "We deeply believe in the power of telling great sports stories. 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," she adds.
Ronaldinho: The One and Only is a co-production by Canal Azul and Trailer Films, directed and written by Luis Ara, who also serves as executive producer alongside Ricardo Aidar and Liz Reis. Luis Ara also directs, writes, and produces the documentary USA 94: Brazil's Return to Glory, produced by Trailer Films. The documentary series The Root Of The Game is produced by Ginga Pictures in partnership with R21 and directed by Alec Cutter.
About Ronaldinho: The One and Only
Ronaldinho: The One and Only is a documentary series that tells the story of one of the greatest soccer players of all time. With exclusive access to his present-day private life and never-before-seen archival material, viewers get to know the star behind the player. The series revisits his victories and defeats throughout his life. It traces the journey of one of the last ambassadors of Brazil's "beautiful game," one of the greatest idols of all time. It is the story of how a boy from Porto Alegre not only conquered the world, but also became one of the most decorated players in history.
About USA 94: Brazil's Return to Glory
This is the story of the Tetra - the fourth World Cup title won by Brazil in 1994 - told through its main protagonists: players from the Brazilian national team and their rivals. Built from previously unseen behind-the-scenes footage recorded by the athletes themselves throughout the tournament, it recounts the victory that marked Brazil's return to soccer's elite since the golden era of Pelé. A team that arrived at the World Cup questioned by the press and doubted by fans, and that - thanks to teamwork, the leadership of captain Dunga, and the goals of Bebeto and Romário - won the Tetra for Brazil.
About The Root Of The Game
From Brazil's five World Cup titles to the emergence of many of the game's greatest names, the world of várzea soccer is the root of it all - including the paths of stars like Raphinha and Cafu. Set against the Super Copa Pioneer, São Paulo's largest and most prestigious amateur soccer tournament, the series offers unprecedented behind-the-scenes access to the competition, following players and coaches in pursuit of the long-dreamed-of várzea title and the chance to change their lives.
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