The 2025 Thinking Football Film Festival kicks off
The 2025 Thinking Football Film Festival kicks off
The film Saipan, which explores the infamous rift between star player Roy Keane and coach Mick McCarthy, will open this year’s edition of the festival that brings together cinema and football
October 6, marks the start of the 2025 Thinking Football Film Festival.
This year’s programme, which will run until October 12, features 11 feature films, two mid-length works, and four short films.
The Sala BBK will host the European premiere of Saipan at 19:00 CEST. The feature film will open this year’s festival following its successful run at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF).
“Saipan” tells the story of one of the most turbulent episodes in Irish football history: the confrontation between Roy Keane, Manchester United captain and star, and manager Mick McCarthy during preparations for the 2002 World Cup.
What began as a dispute over professionalism and training conditions on the remote Pacific island of Saipan escalated into a clash of egos and visions that split the nation, transcending sport and even spilling over into politics.
Directors Lisa Barros D’Sa and Glenn Leyburn will be in attendance to discuss the film, which they describe as a story of ego, solidarity and identity that resonates far beyond the world of sport.
About Thinking Football
Organised by the Athletic Club Foundation, Thinking Football is a special week for those who enjoy cinema and see football not only as a sport but also as a cultural and social phenomenon.
Admission to screenings at Bilbao's Sala BBK is free of charge, but advance booking is required.
As in previous years, many sessions are already sold out, but you can still check the programme and availability here.