20 Best Sport Movies on Netflix 2026
Find sports movies to watch, from The Karate Kid and 42 to Arthur the King, Girl Climber, and GOAT, plus documentaries and family picks.
If you’re searching for the best sport movies on Netflix, this list gives you a mix of true stories, underdog wins, and fun genre twists. You’ll find crowd-pleasers like The Karate Kid, 42, Friday Night Lights, and Field of Dreams, alongside newer picks such as Arthur the King, Girl Climber, and Open Heart. There’s also something lighter and less expected, from Bring It On to The Matchmaker’s Playbook and the animated adventure GOAT. Whether you want drama, documentary, family-friendly viewing, or a sports story with comedy mixed in, these titles make it easy to find your next watch.
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01
GOAT
animation · action · adventure · comedy · family · sport
A small goat with big dreams gets a once-in-a-lifetime shot to join the pros and play roarball, a high-intensity, co-ed, full-contact sport dominated by the fastest, fiercest animals in the world.
Why watch: If you like animated sports stories with action, comedy, and family appeal, GOAT is the clearest fit here. Its premise centers on a small goat chasing a big-league chance in a high-intensity game.
Directed by Tyree Dillihay, Adam RosetteCast Caleb McLaughlin, Gabrielle Union, Stephen Curry, Aaron Pierre, Nicola CoughlanNetflixMore details on IMDb → -
02
Open Heart
documentary · sport
An intimate profile of New York Rangers goalie Henrik Lundqvist's struggles to return to hockey after heart surgery.
Why watch: If you prefer documentary sports stories, Open Heart may appeal to you because it follows a real athlete’s recovery journey. The focus on hockey and heart surgery makes it especially compelling for viewers who like personal, grounded stories.
Directed by Jonathan HockCast Henrik Lundqvist, Joel Lundqvist, Eva Johansson, Kevin Weekes, Nicklas BackstromNetflixMore details on IMDb → -
03
The Furious
action · drama · sport
When YouTuber-boxer Danial insults their late father's name, brothers Firdaus and Hakim reunite - one fighting for redemption, the other for revenge - in a battle that will decide not just who wins, but what remains of The Furious legacy.
Why watch: If you want a sports title with action and drama in the mix, The Furious is a good pick. It should suit viewers who like rivalry-driven stories with a strong family conflict at the center.
Directed by Heng Aik SiongCast Zul Ariffin, Sky Iskandar, Ikmal Amry, Marisa Yasmin, Zamarul HishamNetflixMore details on IMDb → -
04
Girl Climber
documentary · sport
Free climber Emily Harrington attempts a record-breaking climb of El Capitan in Yosemite.
Why watch: If you enjoy documentary sports films about intense physical challenges, Girl Climber is worth a look. Its focus on free climbing and an attempt at a record-breaking ascent makes it a strong fit for adventure-minded viewers.
Directed by Jon GlassbergCast Emily Harrington, Adrian Ballinger, Alex Honnold, Sanni McCandlessNetflixMore details on IMDb → -
05
The Matchmaker's Playbook
comedy · romance · sport
After a career-ending accident, former NFL recruit Ian Hunter is back on campus, and he's putting his extensive skills with women to work as one of the masterminds behind a successful and secretive dating service. But when Blake Olson requests the services of Wingmen, Inc., Ian may have landed his most hopeless client yet. As Blake begins the transformation from hot mess to smokin' hot, Ian realizes he's in danger of breaking his cardinal rule....
Why watch: If you’re in the mood for a sports comedy with romance, this one fits that lane well. The premise also leans into campus life and relationship chaos, so it works for viewers who want something lighter.
Directed by Tosca MuskCast Nick Bateman, Caitlin Carver, Tyler Johnson, Justene Alpert, Trey TuckerNetflixMore details on IMDb →
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06
Ballet 422
documentary · music · sport
The film shadows Justin Peck, wunderkind choreographer of the New York City Ballet, as he undertakes the Herculean task of creating the company’s 422nd original piece. Following the creative process from its embryonic stages to its highly anticipated premiere, BALLET 422 is a powerful celebration of the skill and endurance of New York’s most talented dancers—as well as those who remain hidden in the wings.
Why watch: If you like documentaries that follow athletic discipline from a creative angle, Ballet 422 is an interesting choice. Its blend of music and sport makes it a good pick for viewers who appreciate performance-driven stories.
Directed by Jody Lee LipesCast Amar RamasarNetflixTubiMore details on IMDb → -
07
Schumacher '94: The Birth of a Legend
documentary · biography · sport
Follows 25-year-old Michael Schumacher's breakthrough 1994 Formula 1 season, featuring his first Grand Prix win in Brazil and the dramatic events of one of F1's most exciting racing seasons, including Ayrton Senna's accident.
Why watch: If you enjoy racing documentaries and biography-driven sports stories, this one should be on your list. It focuses on Michael Schumacher’s breakthrough Formula 1 season, so it suits fans of motorsport history.
Directed by Christin FreitagCast Lennart BetzgenNetflixMore details on IMDb → -
08
Bring It On
comedy · romance · sport
The Toro cheerleading squad from Rancho Carne High School in San Diego has got spirit, spunk, sass and a killer routine that's sure to land them the national championship trophy for the sixth year in a row. But for newly-elected team captain Torrance, the Toros' road to total cheer glory takes a shady turn when she discovers that their perfectly-choreographed routines were in fact stolen.
Why watch: If you want a sporty comedy with teen energy and competition, Bring It On is an easy pick. Cheerleading, rivalry, and a school championship setup make it a fun choice for a lighter movie night.
Directed by Peyton ReedCast Kirsten Dunst, Eliza Dushku, Jesse Bradford, Gabrielle Union, Clare KramerNetflixMore details on IMDb → -
09
The Art of Racing in the Rain
comedy · drama · romance · sport
A family dog – with a near-human soul and a philosopher's mind – evaluates his life through the lessons learned by his human owner, a race-car driver.
Why watch: If you like sports stories that also lean into drama and romance, The Art of Racing in the Rain could be a strong match. Its unusual perspective makes it stand out among more traditional racing movies.
Directed by Simon CurtisCast Kevin Costner, Milo Ventimiglia, Jackie Minns, Marcus Hondro, Ian LakeNetflixDisney PlusMore details on IMDb → -
10
Soul Surfer
drama · kids & family · sport
The true story of teen surfer Bethany Hamilton, who lost her arm in a shark attack and courageously overcame all odds to become a champion again, through her sheer determination and unwavering faith.
Why watch: If you’re drawn to true stories about resilience, Soul Surfer is a natural fit. It combines sports drama with a family-friendly tone and a comeback story built around surfing.
Directed by Sean McNamaraCast AnnaSophia Robb, Helen Hunt, Dennis Quaid, Carrie Underwood, Kevin SorboNetflixMore details on IMDb → -
11
Concussion
drama · sport · made in europe
A dramatic thriller based on the incredible true David vs. Goliath story of American immigrant Dr. Bennet Omalu, the brilliant forensic neuropathologist who made the first discovery of CTE, a football-related brain trauma, in a pro player and fought for the truth to be known. Omalu's emotional quest puts him at dangerous odds with one of the most powerful institutions in the world.
Why watch: If you prefer sports dramas based on real events, Concussion is a strong option. Its focus on football, science, and institutional conflict gives it a more serious edge.
Directed by Peter LandesmanCast Will Smith, Alec Baldwin, Albert Brooks, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, David MorseNetflixMore details on IMDb → -
12
The Karate Kid Part II
1 Oscar nomination
action · family · sport
Summoned by his dying father, Miyagi returns to his homeland of Okinawa, with Daniel, after a 40-year exile. There he must confront Yukie, the love of his youth, and Sato, his former best friend turned vengeful rival. Sato is bent on a fight to the death, even if it means the destruction of their village. Daniel finds his own love in Yukia's niece, Kumiko, and his own enemy in Sato's nephew, the vicious Chozen. Now, far away from the tournaments, cheering crowds and safety of home, Daniel will face his greatest challenge ever when the cost of honor is life itself.
Why watch: If you like martial arts stories that mix action and family elements, The Karate Kid Part II is a solid choice. It follows Daniel and Miyagi into a new setting with honor and rivalry at the center.
Directed by John G. AvildsenCast Pat Morita, Ralph Macchio, Pat E. Johnson, Bruce Malmuth, Eddie SmithNetflixMore details on IMDb → -
13
Balls of Fury
comedy · crime · sport
Randy Daytona was a child ping pong prodigy who lost his chance at Olympic gold when his father is murdered by the mysterious Feng over a gambling debt. 15yrs later he's down on his luck and scraping a living doing seedy back room shows in Vegas; when the FBI turn up and ask for his help to take down Feng... who just happens to love Ping Pong.
Why watch: If you want a sports comedy that goes in a more offbeat direction, Balls of Fury may be your speed. The ping pong setup and crime angle make it best for viewers who like quirky premises.
Directed by Robert Ben GarantCast Dan Fogler, Christopher Walken, George Lopez, Maggie Q, James HongNetflixMore details on IMDb → -
14
The Karate Kid
1 Oscar nomination Best Supporting Actor (1985)
action · drama · family · sport
New Jersey teen Daniel LaRusso moves to Los Angeles with his mother, and soon strikes up a relationship with Ali. He quickly finds himself the target of bullying by a group of thugs, led by Ali's ex-boyfriend Johnny, who study karate at the Cobra Kai dojo under ruthless sensei John Kreese. Fortunately, Daniel befriends Mr. Miyagi, an unassuming repairman who just happens to be a martial arts master himself. Miyagi takes Daniel under his wing, training him in a more compassionate form of karate for self-defense and, later, preparing him to compete against the brutal Cobra Kai.
Why watch: If you’re looking for a classic sports film with action, drama, and family appeal, The Karate Kid is the obvious place to start. It’s a good choice for anyone who likes underdog stories centered on martial arts.
Directed by John G. AvildsenCast Ralph Macchio, Pat Morita, Elisabeth Shue, Martin Kove, Randee HellerNetflixMore details on IMDb → -
15
42
drama · sport
In 1947, Jackie Robinson becomes the first Black man to play in Major League Baseball facing unabashed racism from the public, the press and other players.
Why watch: If you enjoy inspirational sports dramas based on real history, 42 is a strong pick. It centers on Jackie Robinson and the challenges he faced in Major League Baseball.
Directed by Brian HelgelandCast Chadwick Boseman, Harrison Ford, Nicole Beharie, Christopher Meloni, Ryan MerrimanNetflixMore details on IMDb → -
16
Friday Night Lights
action · drama · sport
A small, turbulent town in Texas obsesses over their high school football team to an unhealthy degree. When the star tailback, Boobie Miles, is seriously injured during the first game of the season, all hope is lost, and the town's dormant social problems begin to flare up. It is left to the inspiring abilities of new coach Gary Gaines to instill in the other team members -- and, by proxy, the town itself -- a sense of self-respect and honor.
Why watch: If you like football stories with drama and a sense of place, Friday Night Lights fits that taste well. It’s especially appealing if you’re drawn to small-town pressure and team-centered storytelling.
Directed by Peter BergCast Billy Bob Thornton, Lucas Black, Garrett Hedlund, Derek Luke, Jay HernandezNetflixMore details on IMDb → -
17
To The Max
action & adventure · drama · sport
Three skydivers died in similar accidents within five years. Salvador Calvo wanted to tell their stories with the sole survivor, Carlos Suárez.
Why watch: If you’re interested in sports dramas tied to adventure and real-life risk, To The Max may appeal to you. The skydiving premise gives it a more extreme edge than many other titles here.
Directed by Salvador CalvoCast Carlos Cuevas, Miguel Bernardeau, Miguel Ángel Silvestre, José Manuel Poga, David MarcéNetflixMore details on IMDb → -
18
Arthur the King
adventure · drama · sport
Over the course of ten days and 435 miles, an unbreakable bond is forged between pro adventure racer Michael Light and a scrappy street dog companion dubbed Arthur. As the team is pushed to their outer limits of endurance in the race, Arthur redefines what victory, loyalty and friendship truly mean.
Why watch: If you enjoy adventure sports stories with a heartfelt bond at the center, Arthur the King is a strong match. Its mix of endurance racing and a loyal dog gives it wide appeal.
Directed by Simon Cellan JonesCast Mark Wahlberg, Simu Liu, Juliet Rylance, Nathalie Emmanuel, Ali SulimanNetflixMore details on IMDb → -
19
3 Ninjas Kick Back
action & adventure · comedy · kids & family · sport
During a championship baseball match, the three brothers hear that their grandfather in Japan is in trouble, and head out to help him, conceding the match. When they arrive in Japan, they must use all their powers to defend him against his ancient enemy, who has returned to exact revenge.
Why watch: If you like kids’ adventure with a sports backdrop, 3 Ninjas Kick Back offers that mix. It blends baseball, family, and action for viewers who want something playful.
Directed by Charles T. KanganisCast Victor Wong, Max Elliott Slade, Sean Fox, J. Evan Bonifant, Caroline Junko KingNetflixMore details on IMDb → -
20
Field of Dreams
3 Oscar nominations Best Picture (1990)
drama · family · fantasy · sport
Ray Kinsella is an Iowa farmer who hears a mysterious voice telling him to turn his cornfield into a baseball diamond. He does, but the voice's directions don't stop -- even after the spirits of deceased ballplayers turn up to play.
Why watch: If you prefer sports movies with fantasy and family themes, Field of Dreams is an easy recommendation. Its baseball setting and reflective tone make it ideal for viewers who like a more whimsical story.
Directed by Phil Alden RobinsonCast Kevin Costner, Amy Madigan, Gaby Hoffmann, Ray Liotta, Timothy BusfieldNetflixMore details on IMDb →
Wrapping Up
This roundup is built for viewers who want sports stories with variety, from high-stakes competition to intimate documentaries and family-friendly classics. Whether you’re in the mood for boxing, baseball, climbing, racing, or a more playful take on competition, there’s a solid option here. Bookmark this page and check back when you’re ready for another recommendation, since it’s updated regularly. That way, you’ll always have a fresh starting point for your next sports movie night.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some good Netflix series about sports?
Our top picks right now are GOAT (2026), Open Heart (2023), The Furious (2026), Girl Climber (2025), The Matchmaker's Playbook (2018), Ballet 422 (2014), Schumacher '94: The Birth of a Legend (2026), Bring It On (2000), The Art of Racing in the Rain (2019) and Soul Surfer (2011), all streaming on Netflix. There are 10 more picks in the full list above.
How often is this list updated?
We refresh this list regularly as titles are added or removed from streaming catalogs, so rankings and availability stay current.
Do I need a Netflix subscription to watch these?
Yes. Every title on this list is currently available on Netflix. Availability can change, so we recommend checking the streaming link on each title before you start watching.
How are these sport movies ranked?
We rank by a combination of audience rating and current popularity, so you're seeing the sport titles people are actually watching right now, not just an old fixed list.