“SPRINT”: Netflix’s Dynamic Dive into the Mind of the World’s Fastest Humans

"SPRINT" is a two-season Netflix documentary series which has six episodes in season 1, and four in season 2. With the latest season being released in November of last year, the show follows top sprinters like Noah Lyles, Sha’Carri Richardson, Shericka Jackson, Marcell Jacobs, Zharnel Hughes and Fred Kerley. It gives viewers a closer look into how these athletes train, how they prepare their bodies, deal with mental challenges, and manage their personal lives as they race to be the fastest people in the world.

(Image Credit to @theofficialclipse on Instagram)

Plot Overview

Season 1 (July 2024): This season has six episodes and follows Noah Lyles, Sha’Carri Richardson, Shericka Jackson, Marcell Jacobs and more from the 2023 Diamond League circuit to the World Championships in Budapest, exploring rivalries, training, and personal stories.

Season 2 (November 13, 2024): This shorter, four-episode season captures the Olympic trials and the climactic Paris Olympics, spotlighting new athletes like Gabby Thomas, Fred Kerley, Julien Alfred and others, showcasing their Olympic journeys.

Section Focuses

1. Heir to the Throne 

This part focuses on Noah Lyles’ journey and showcases his confident attitude, especially early in season 1. Lyles talks about being the third-fastest human and how he aims to be the fastest.

2. Queens 

This section looks at the rivalry between Sha’Carri Richardson and Shericka Jackson. 

It covers how they deal with pressure, national pride, and the global attention they receive. 

3. Belonging 

This part shows how athletes carry their country’s hopes, like Zharnel Hughes for Britain and Marcell Jacobs for Italy. It explores how they balance their personal goals with the expectations of their nation.

4. Trials & Tribulations – Savage Selections

This part of the series highlights the intense Olympic trials, where athletes have to navigate the high and lows as they fight for a spot in the Olympics. It also shows the hard work that coaches and support staff put in behind the scenes.

5. The Olympic Stage – Paris 2024

The final episodes show the raw emotions that come with competing at the Olympics, from the build-up before a race to the results that bring either joy or heartbreak. Athletes like Gabby Thomas, Sherman Jackson, Let’sile Tebogo, and Julien Alfred share their key moments.

Final Thoughts

“SPRINT” isn’t just about who wins a race—it’s about the story behind the race. It shows the ambition, strength, and pride that drives these athletes. The documentary is well-made and inspiring, even though it sometimes focuses more on the emotional side rather than the raw truth. Overall, it’s a strong addition to Netflix’s growing collection of sports documentaries.

Article written by Ioanna Ntontsef