James Rodriguez Netflix Documentary Set to Stream May 21 Before 2026 World Cup Kickoff
"In 2014, James Rodríguez took the world by storm," Netflix announces in the teaser for its forthcoming three-part documentary. That statement holds true. What followed, however, tells a far more complex story.
The series, titled simply James, launches on May 21 — arriving just weeks ahead of Colombia's 2026 World Cup opener against Uzbekistan in Mexico City on June 17. The release timing isn't coincidental. Director Simón Brand has assembled an in-depth look at the player wearing Colombia's legendary No. 10 jersey, chronicling his explosive 2014 World Cup performance in Brazil, his transfer to Real Madrid, his spell with Bayern Munich, and his current chapter with Minnesota United in Major League Soccer.
A résumé most footballers only dream about
Now 34 years old, James boasts Champions League, La Liga, and Bundesliga winners' medals in his collection. He netted the sole World Cup goal ever to claim the FIFA Puskás Award — a stunning curling volley versus Uruguay that fans continue to watch on repeat. He captured the 2014 Golden Boot. His inclusion alongside Ronaldinho, Beckham, Neymar, Pelé, and Di Maria in Netflix's expanding football documentary catalogue confirms his standing among the sport's elite.
What he hasn't secured: a Copa América trophy or World Cup title with Colombia. According to Netflix's description, the documentary will explore "pressure, sacrifice, triumph, and heartbreak, both on and off the pitch." There's no shortage of content to cover.
Colombia's fitness worries won't disappear
At present, James represents a legitimate concern. Following his February signing with Minnesota United, he's appeared in only four of the club's opening 11 MLS fixtures, accumulating a mere 103 minutes — derailed by visa complications, injury setbacks, medical visits, and a hospital stay due to severe dehydration. Zero goals. Zero assists.
He's publicly promised supporters he'll reach the tournament in "excellent form." That's standard player rhetoric. What counts is whether that promise becomes reality when Colombia meet Portugal on June 27 in Miami for their Group K finale.
- June 17 — Colombia vs. Uzbekistan, Mexico City
- June 23 — Colombia vs. DR Congo, Monterrey
- June 27 — Colombia vs. Portugal, Miami
His Minnesota contract expires June 30, with the club holding an option to extend through the 2026 MLS campaign's conclusion. Considering his contribution thus far, it's difficult to envision the Loons eagerly exercising that option. The 2026 World Cup could legitimately represent James's final performance on football's grandest platform — and presently, Minnesota's chances of retaining him appear significantly slimmer than Colombia's prospects of advancing from the group stage.