Nike's Big Bet is a documentary film that explores the career of Alberto Salazar, a former long-distance runner and Olympic medalist who became one of the most successful and controversial coaches in track and field. The film delves into Salazar's coaching methods, which were known for pushing athletes to their physical and mental limits, as well as his involvement in the Nike Oregon Project, a training group that aimed to produce the world's best distance runners.
However, in 2019, Salazar was suspended by the US Anti-Doping Agency for doping violations, a decision that rocked the world of track and field and raised questions about Nike's involvement in the scandal. The documentary explores the allegations against Salazar, including accusations that he orchestrated a sophisticated doping scheme to help his athletes perform better in competition. It also features interviews with former Nike employees, athletes, and coaches, who provide unique insights into Salazar's coaching philosophy and the culture of performance-enhancing drugs in the sport.
Despite the controversy surrounding Salazar, Nike continued to support him, fueling speculation that the company was more concerned with winning than with following the rules. The film raises important questions about the role of corporate sponsors in sports, and the pressures that coaches and athletes face to perform at the highest level.
Overall, Nike's Big Bet is a revealing look at one of the most influential figures in the world of track and field, and the complex issues surrounding doping and performance in professional sports.