These Docs Get You Excited for the Olympics - German Olympians' Untold Stories Revealed in New Documentaries Ahead of Winter Games
The Winter Olympics are drawing near, with athletes finalising their preparations and fans growing more excited. To build anticipation, German broadcasters ARD and ZDF have released a series of documentaries focusing on the country's top winter sports stars. These films offer a behind-the-scenes look at the dedication, struggles, and ambitions of competitors aiming for Olympic glory.
One standout documentary, Fly, tracks Germany's elite ski jumpers as they train for the Games. The film features Andreas Wellinger and Katharina Schmid, capturing their highs and challenges in the run-up to competition. Meanwhile, Powerplay follows the national ice hockey team, led by NHL star Leon Draisaitl, as they gear up for Olympic contention.
Biathlon Nation – Ein Team. Eine Mission provides an unfiltered view of the German biathlon squad during a turbulent season. The documentary highlights Franziska Preuß's triumph in the Overall World Cup while also exposing internal tensions within the team. Another film, Big Dreams, centres on young ski racers Greta Sachsenröder and Romy Ertl. It documents their push to turn professional, showcasing the sacrifices and determination required to reach the top.
In a more unconventional approach, OnlyBob profiles bobsleigh athlete Lisa Buckwitz. The documentary explores her use of the platform OnlyFans to fund her Olympic ambitions, shedding light on the financial hurdles faced by athletes outside mainstream sponsorship.
The documentaries come at a time when public interest in winter sports is peaking. They not only spotlight individual athletes but also reveal the broader efforts behind Germany's Olympic campaign. With the Games approaching, these films provide fans with deeper insight into the journeys of those competing for medals.