Sports documentaries capture the heart, grit, and drama of athletic competition, offering fans a deeper look into their favorite athletes, teams, and moments. As we head into 2025, here’s a curated list of the top 10 sports documentaries that promise to inspire, entertain, and inform. From untold stories to legendary triumphs, these films are must-watches for sports enthusiasts.
1. The Last Dance (2020)
Where to Watch: Netflix
This iconic docuseries chronicles Michael Jordan’s final season with the Chicago Bulls, blending archival footage with candid interviews. While not new, its deep dive into Jordan’s leadership and the Bulls’ dynasty keeps it timeless for 2025 viewers. Perfect for basketball fans craving intensity and nostalgia.
2. Drive to Survive (Season 7, 2025)
Where to Watch: Netflix
Formula 1’s gripping docuseries returns with its seventh season, showcasing the 2024 season’s rivalries, crashes, and triumphs. Expect high-speed drama, behind-the-scenes team dynamics, and a spotlight on drivers like Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton. A must for motorsport lovers.
3. The Redeem Team (2022)
Where to Watch: Netflix
This documentary revisits the 2008 U.S. Olympic basketball team’s quest to reclaim gold after a humbling 2004 loss. Featuring Kobe Bryant and LeBron James, it’s a story of redemption and teamwork that resonates for its emotional depth and star power.
4. Senna (2010)
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime
Ayrton Senna’s life and tragic death are explored in this masterful documentary. With breathtaking race footage and personal insights, it remains a poignant watch for F1 fans and newcomers alike, especially with renewed interest in the sport in 2025.
5. Free Solo (2018)
Where to Watch: Disney+
Follow Alex Honnold’s death-defying climb of El Capitan without ropes in this Oscar-winning documentary. Its heart-pounding visuals and psychological depth make it a standout for adventure sports fans looking for edge-of-your-seat storytelling.
6. Unchained: The Untold Story of Freestyle Motocross (2016)
Where to Watch: Hulu
This high-octane documentary traces the rise of freestyle motocross, spotlighting daredevils like Travis Pastrana. Its blend of adrenaline-pumping stunts and personal struggles makes it a thrilling pick for extreme sports enthusiasts.
7. The Armstrong Lie (2013)
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime
Lance Armstrong’s doping scandal and cycling career are dissected in this unflinching documentary. With 2025 marking continued discussions on ethics in sports, this film offers a sobering look at ambition, deceit, and redemption.
8. Welcome to Wrexham (Season 4, 2025)
Where to Watch: Hulu
Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney’s journey to revive Wrexham AFC continues in this heartfelt docuseries. Season 4, expected in 2025, follows the team’s rise and community impact, blending humor and heart for soccer fans and beyond.
9. Icarus (2017)
Where to Watch: Netflix
This Oscar-winning film starts as a cyclist’s experiment with doping and uncovers a global scandal. Its relevance persists in 2025 as sports face ongoing integrity challenges, making it a gripping watch for those interested in the darker side of competition.
10. Hoop Dreams (1994)
Where to Watch: Criterion Channel
A timeless classic, Hoop Dreams follows two Chicago teens chasing NBA dreams. Its raw portrayal of ambition, socioeconomic struggles, and resilience ensures it remains a powerful watch for 2025 audiences, especially basketball fans.
These documentaries span sports, eras, and themes, from triumph to controversy. Whether you’re into basketball, racing, or extreme sports, there’s something here to captivate you in 2025. Grab some popcorn, stream one of these, and dive into the stories that make sports unforgettable.
Which one are you watching first? Let us know in the comments!