Stolen Gold: Paralympic Scandal Rocks 30 for 30 Documentary
ESPN Films is set to premiere its latest 30 for 30 documentary, "Stolen Gold", on Tuesday, 17 September at 9pm BST on ESPN. The film will be available to stream on ESPN+ shortly after its broadcast debut.
Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Suemay Oram, "Stolen Gold" delves into the remarkable true story of Ramón Torres and the Spanish intellectually disabled basketball team's triumph at the 2000 Sydney Paralympics. The team's journey to the gold medal is juxtaposed with a shocking revelation: some of Torres' teammates were not who they seemed.
An undercover journalist's investigation exposes a staggering scandal, rocking the world of Paralympic sport. As the truth unfolds, Torres discovers that everything he believed in was a lie. He is forced to confront not only the fraudulent conspiracy but also his own childhood, marred by bullying and trauma. The film explores his personal journey towards self-discovery as he grapples with the devastating impact of the scandal.
"I wanted to bring a fresh perspective to one of sport's biggest scandals," explained director Suemay Oram. "Through Ramón Torres' eyes, we experience the immense joy of the Paralympics and the profound deception that follows. For me, it's a poignant tale of resilience and self-discovery, demonstrating that even amidst scandal, people are left to pick up the pieces."
"Stolen Gold" provides unprecedented behind-the-scenes access, tracing the entirety of Torres' story from his early life in Spain to the pinnacle of his sporting career and the subsequent fallout. The documentary not only highlights a significant moment in sporting history but also delves into the personal struggles of its protagonist.
Marsha Cooke, Vice President & Executive Producer, ESPN Films and 30 for 30, added: "We're dedicated to telling stories that resonate deeply with our audience, and Ramón's journey is a compelling narrative. 'Stolen Gold' is more than just a sports documentary; it's a powerful exploration of truth, identity, and resilience."
"Stolen Gold" is produced by UnTypical, a VICE Studios Group company. Executive producers include Tom Keeling for UnTypical, Marsha Cooke for ESPN Films, and Paralympic medalist and broadcaster Ade Adepitan MBE.
About ESPN Films
Since its inception in March 2008, ESPN Films has become a leader in documentary filmmaking, producing over 100 documentaries showcasing compelling stories from the world of sport. Their exceptional storytelling, exemplified by the Peabody and Emmy Award-winning 30 for 30 series and the Academy Award-winning documentary "O.J.: Made in America", has garnered record viewership and critical acclaim. ESPN Films has also produced other acclaimed projects like 30 for 30 Shorts, Nine for IX, SEC Storied, and the Emmy award-winning docu-series "The Last Dance." The entire 30 for 30 library is available exclusively on ESPN+.
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