The U.S. Mission Saudi Arabia is pleased to announce an open call for documentary filmmakers to apply for the American Film Showcase (AFS) Sports Documentary Residency, an all-expenses-paid, 10-day residency at the University of Southern California (USC) School of Cinematic Arts in Los Angeles, taking place June 13–26, 2026.
The program is designed in recognition of two major international sporting events taking place in the United States: the FIFA World Cup 2026 and the Olympic and Paralympic Games Los Angeles 2028.
The application deadline is February 22, 2026
Program Description
The AFS Sports Documentary Residency immerses filmmakers in the craft of sports-centered documentary storytelling, with an emphasis on narrative structure and character development.
Arriving with sports documentary works-in-progress, selected filmmakers will participate in intensive story development sessions led by USC faculty and other industry leaders. Participants will also be paired with American sports media professionals who will serve as pitch mentors, working with filmmakers to shape 7-minute pitch presentations.
The residency culminates in a final pitch event for invited professionals from the American sports documentary, film, and media industries. Following the residency, participants become AFS alumni and gain access to additional AFS exchange programs and professional opportunities.
Who Can Apply:
- Documentary filmmakers with 1–2 completed films and sports documentary project in progress
Filmmaker Application Requirements
- Strong narrative and cinematic storytelling skills
- Project focused on athletes, teams, competitions, training, sports history, or behind-the-scenes perspectives
- Proficiency in English
- Applicants should be Saudi nationals
- Ability to participate in the full 10-day program
- Submit a completed application online at this link: Nomination Form
- Submit your professional CV, online links to work-in-progress sports documentary footage (required), and previously produced documentary or narrative work (recommended) to exchangeprogramssaudiarabia@state.gov
Program Dates
- Arrival in Los Angeles: Saturday, June 13
- Rest Day: Sunday, June 14
- Program Days: Monday, June 15 – Thursday, June 25
- Departure from Los Angeles: Friday, June 26
Benefits:
- Story development workshops with USC faculty
- Mentorship from U.S. sports media professionals
- Final pitch event with industry leaders
- Access to future AFS programs and alumni network
We look forward to receiving your applications!