Vinicius Junior’s documentary “Baila, Vini” has been nominated for the 2026 International Emmy Awards in the Best Sports Documentary category, giving the Real Madrid star another international spotlight beyond football.
The nomination was announced on September 23, 2026, by the International Academy of Television Arts & Sciences. “Baila, Vini” is one of four nominees in the category, alongside productions from Spain, South Africa and the United Kingdom.
The International Emmy Awards 2026 ceremony will take place in New York on November 23.
Why Baila, Vini Is Getting International Recognition
Released on Netflix in May 2025, “Baila, Vini” follows Vinicius Junior through a difficult but important period of his career.
The documentary looks at his football achievements, injuries and major moments with Real Madrid, while also giving attention to his experiences with racism and his decision to speak publicly about discrimination in football. It features interviews with people including Neymar, Carlo Ancelotti, Rodrygo, Karim Benzema, Thibaut Courtois and Roberto Carlos.
That combination gives the Vinicius Junior documentary a wider focus than match highlights. It presents the player through both his sporting career and the personal challenges that came with becoming one of football’s most visible young stars.
A Milestone for Netflix Brasil
The nomination also represents a milestone for Netflix’s Brazilian production operation. Netflix Brasil said “Baila, Vini” is the company’s first sports documentary developed and produced entirely in Brazil. The film was directed by Andrucha Waddington and has already reached more than six million views on Netflix, while entering the platform’s Top 10 in 14 countries.
That international audience helps explain why the Baila, Vini International Emmy nomination matters beyond Vinicius himself. A story produced in Brazil about a Brazilian footballer is now competing on one of television’s biggest international stages.
When Are the International Emmy Awards 2026?
The 54th International Emmy Awards will be held in New York on November 23, 2026. Nominees will also take part in the International Emmy World Television Festival from November 20 to 22.
For Vinicius Junior, the nomination adds another chapter to a career that has increasingly extended beyond football. “Baila, Vini” has now moved from telling his story to becoming part of the international television awards conversation itself.
