An anticipated biopic is set to bring to light the remarkable life of Anita Carmona Ruiz, a Spanish soccer player whose audacity knew no bounds. Known by her nicknames Nita or Veleta, she faced the societal restrictions of the 1920s, a time when women’s participation in sports, particularly soccer, was far from accepted. Disguised as a man, Carmona skillfully navigated the male-dominated landscape of soccer, challenging norms and breaking barriers in an era when women were often sidelined in the athletic arena.
The film project is a collaboration involving LaLiga Studios—a partnership between Spain’s premier soccer league and the reputable Banijay production group. The synergy extends to additional Spanish studios, Blend Studios and M Content, showcasing a commitment to telling a story that resonates deeply with contemporary audiences. This cinematic endeavor is founded on the revelations brought to light by journalist and author Jesús Hurtado, who retraced Carmona’s footsteps and chronicled her impactful narrative in a 2020 publication, marking 80 years since her passing.
Carmona, who notably played for Málaga FC, passed away in 1940 at the young age of 32. As her story is adapted for the screen, Paco Torres, the project’s director, expressed his aspiration: “Our goal is to make a film that moves, mobilizes, and tells the whole world the practically unknown story of Anita Carmona.” The depiction of Veleta as “the world’s first women’s footballer” by co-screenwriter Amaya Muruzábal emphasizes her tenacity and exceptional spirit—a rarity in biographical narratives of athletes, especially female ones.
The fascination with sports narratives extends beyond this film, evidencing a rising trend of drama and entertainment series centering on sports figures and franchises. A notable addition to this trend is Banijay’s establishment of Banijay Iberia Sports, a division dedicated to the creation and development of sports-themed content. LaLiga Studios is also expanding its portfolio with a drama series focused on elite Spanish soccer and has forged a partnership with Hollywood production company MTP to produce an unnamed series featuring soccer stars.
Chalo Bonifacino Cooke, CEO of LaLiga Studios, emphasizes the significance of these narratives, stating, “We always talk about those stories that deserve to be told.” Owing to the historical weight of women’s stories in sports often overlooked, the portrayal of Anita Carmona Ruiz is not only timely but essential. By resurrecting her legacy through cinema, the film aims to inspire new generations while inviting discussions about gender equity in sports. Carmona’s story serves as a catalyst for ongoing dialogue about the challenges faced by women athletes today, illustrating that courageous pursuits against adversity are timeless.
In essence, the impending biopic on Anita Carmona Ruiz stands as both a tribute and a necessary reckoning with the past, paving the way for its rightful place in sports history.