Zoe Bonafonte steps onto the screen as Ana 'Nita' Carmona Ruiz, the trailblazing woman who, at the turn of the 20th century, slipped into a male‑only football pitch to chase a dream that was deemed impossible for her gender.
A story rooted in Málaga's past
Set in 1917 in the bustling port of Málaga, the film weaves the personal rebellion of Carmona with the wider upheavals of the city’s fisherwomen protests and the distant Rif War, using sport as a lens on social change.
The ensemble cast also features Dani Rovira, known for his charismatic turns in Spanish comedy, and Moe Dunford, who brought depth to the historical epic 'Vikings', alongside Goya‑winning veterans Adelfa Calvo and Mariola Fuentes.
Behind the camera and the crew
Directed by Paco Torres, the Spain‑Argentina co‑production is co‑written and produced by Amaya Muruzábal, whose work on 'Hernán' and 'Red Queen' has earned her a reputation for reimagining untold histories.
The project enjoys the backing of several institutions, including RTVA, Spain’s ICAA, and the Málaga Provincial Council, while the local club Málaga CF has pledged to amplify the film’s message through its own outreach.
Blend Studios, Nephilim Producciones and Lahaye Media have combined their expertise to bring the period piece to life, leveraging cutting‑edge visual work and authentic Andalusian locales to recreate the era’s colour and rhythm.
Honouring a hidden legacy
Paco Torres has said that Carmona’s fight mirrors the broader struggle of women who dared to step beyond prescribed roles, paving a path for the freedoms enjoyed today.
Scheduled for a 2027 release, 'Veleta' aims to mobilize audiences worldwide, shining a light on a story that has lingered in the shadows of sports history and celebrating the resilient spirit of Andalusian culture.