Nostalgia Gets a Revival: ‘Football in Action’ Returns
VinTV, a channel known for its nostalgic content, is bringing back the beloved series ‘Football in Action’ on June 11, 2026, coinciding with the start of the Soccer World Cup in the USA. This marks a significant moment, as it will be the first time the series is available on a Spanish screen since its original airing ended on June 12, 1982. The absence of reruns or a DVD release has left many unaware that the series was directed by a notable figure who would later create ‘Dragon Ball’.
The Struggles of Spanish Animation
Spain’s animation industry was still in its infancy in 1981 when ‘Football in Action’ was conceived to celebrate the upcoming World Cup. During this era, serious attempts to establish an animation industry began to take shape. Although there were some early successes, such as Cruz Delgado’s ‘Don Quixote de la Mancha’, the industry lacked the infrastructure and experience to tackle large projects.
BRB International’s Unique Role
BRB International appears as a co-producer of ‘Football in Action’, though it was not primarily an animation studio. Founded by Claudio Biern Boyd in 1972, BRB started as a merchandising agency. Its entry into co-productions involved partnering with studios that provided the necessary technical capabilities. For ‘Football in Action’, BRB collaborated with Nippon Animation, known for classics like ‘Heidi’ and ‘Marco’. This partnership allowed for a more polished presentation of the series while establishing ties with TVE and character development.
A Unique Blend of Aesthetics
‘Football in Action’ is distinctly recognized as an anime, showcasing features such as hyper-expressive eyes and physical comedy typical of the genre. The storylines blended sports history with imaginative adventures against the antagonist Zruspa, providing ample excitement for young viewers. Notable figures such as Alfredo Di Stéfano contributed as a sports advisor, while Matías Prats lent his voice as the commentator. The series even garnered international attention, airing in France, Italy, and reaching audiences in Latin America, though only France published a DVD edition in 2013.
The Creative Visionary: Minoru Okazaki
The mastermind behind ‘Football in Action’ was Minoru Okazaki, a prominent figure in anime history. He began his directing career in 1964 with the iconic ‘Astro Boy’, setting a precedent for visual and narrative styles in anime. By the time he directed ‘Football in Action’, Okazaki had already made considerable contributions to the animation scene, including work on ‘Dr. Slump’ and later, ‘Dragon Ball’ in 1986. His extensive experience brought a special touch to the series that excited audiences.
Full Circle: A Prophecy Fulfilled
Intriguingly, ‘Football in Action’ concludes with a character hinting at a return “when Spain organizes another World Cup.” This prophecy will partially come to fruition in 2030, when Spain hosts the World Cup alongside Portugal and Morocco. Whether the next mascot will reflect the creative legacy of this legendary anime remains to be seen.
The re-release of ‘Football in Action’ not only stirs nostalgia but also serves as a reminder of how far the animation industry has come in Spain. With its unique blend of sports and storytelling, this series occupies a special place in the hearts of many.