Introduction: West Ham Legend Clyde Best Subject of Documentary Film Set to Premiere in 2026
The world premiere of a major biographical documentary about West Ham icon Clyde Best will take place in London in March 2026. with a second screening to be held in Bermuda the following month. Entitled Transforming the Beautiful Game: The Clyde Best Story. This film tells the life and times of one of football’s true pioneers.
What the Documentary of West Ham Covers
The documentary explores Clyde Best’s journey from Bermuda to becoming one of West Ham United’s most influential forwards during the late 1960s and 1970s. It focuses not only on his achievements on the pitch but also on the significant racial abuse he endured—how he refused to let it define him.
Viewers will see Best reflecting on his West Ham days, supported by interviews with former teammates and several groundbreaking Black footballers, including Viv Anderson, Les Ferdinand, and Brendon Batson. Their thoughts add weight to the story as it underlines how Best’s success opened doors for future generations.
Production & Premiere Details
Helmed by Dan Egan, the film stitches together archival footage, personal interviews, and rare behind-the-scenes moments into an emotional, human narrative.
The project has received support from sponsors and football organizations in Bermuda, underlining Best’s enduring national impact.
Why This Story Matters
Clyde Best is widely regarded as one of the pioneering professional Black footballers who enjoyed success in the English First Division. Through his courage and consistency during a period when racism within football was overt and vitriolic. He is considered to have paved the way for literally hundreds of players who followed him. His story is bigger than football—it’s about resilience, representation, and breaking down barriers.
Author’s Opinion
This is a film, in many ways, that is long overdue. Clyde Best’s life forms an important chapter in the history of football. Casting it on the big screen will ensure that the young players, fans, and future generations remember his influence. The March 2026 premiere will be a defining moment. Honoring a player who changed the sport far beyond the goals he scored.
