Softball and social change: “Las Amazonas de Yaxunah” wins Peace and Sport Documentary Prize

The inspiring documentary “Las Amazonas de Yaxunah” has been honored with the Peace and Sport Documentary Prize at the SPORTEL Awards 2025, recognizing its powerful portrayal of sport as a vehicle for empowerment, unity, and social change.

Directed by Alfonso Algara, and produced by ESPN +, “Las Amazonas de Yaxunah” tells the remarkable story of a group of Mayan women from the small village of Yaxunah, in Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, who form a softball team defying gender norms, cultural barriers, and adversity. 

“We are deeply honoured to receive this award, 'The Amazonas' are a living example of courage and resilience — their journey shows that when women lead through sport, entire communities are transformed,” said Algara.

Narrated by Yalitza Aparicio, the first Indigenous Mexican actress ever nominated for an Academy Award, the film follows the journey of 26 players — ages 13 to 62 — as they shatter gender stereotypes and overcome immense challenges to pursue their passion for softball.

Their story is a testament to the power of sport as a tool for identity, empowerment, and inclusion. The film blends personal narratives with historical context, exploring the role of women in Yucatán across centuries, and highlighting how the Amazonas have become trailblazers who inspire women and girls throughout Mexico and beyond.

“Las Amazonas de Yaxunah” is available in Disney+.

“Las Amazonas de Yaxunah” was selected for its authentic storytelling, emotional impact, and compelling demonstration of how sport can empower women and strengthen communities from the grassroots level, by a jury composed of Champions for Peace.

“Films have the ability to convey the emotions and values transmitted by sport. At Peace and Sport, we strive to recognize role models at all levels, to shine a light that guides others," declared Joël Bouzou, President and Founder of Peace and Sport. "This documentary does exactly that: it captures the resilience of women who dared to play and used sport to break barriers. In doing so, they sparked social change and became symbols of courage for entire communities.” 

Since 2014, in partnership with the Sportel Awards, Peace and Sport rewards directors who are tackling themes to demonstrate that sport can move barriers and norms in society. The Peace and Sport Documentary Prize honours productions that showcase the unifying and transformative power of sport in advancing peace and inclusion worldwide. 

Peace and Sport is an international, neutral and independent organization based in Monaco, which promotes peace using the power of sport. Founded in 2007 by Modern Pentathlon Olympic Medallist and World Champion Joël Bouzou, Peace and Sport is placed under the High Patronage of H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco.