Ted Lasso Star Cristo Fernández Signs Pro Soccer Deal

Actor Cristo Fernández has signed a professional soccer contract with El Paso Locomotive FC. This is a big change from his acting career.
By Newsroom | Sports, Entertainment |

Cristo Fernández, known for portraying striker Dani Rojas in the Apple TV series Ted Lasso, has officially signed a professional soccer contract with El Paso Locomotive FC, a club in the USL Championship, the second tier of American professional soccer. The announcement was made on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, following a two-month trial period with the Texas-based team. Fernández, aged 35, will join the club as a forward, potentially making his debut later this month in a cup match.

The move blurs the lines between fiction and reality, with the actor now occupying the same on-field role he embodied on screen. This professional contract represents the culmination of a lifelong ambition for Fernández, who expressed his enduring passion for the sport.

A Second Chance at the Pitch

Fernández's journey to professional football is not a sudden one. He previously pursued a career in soccer during his youth in Guadalajara, Mexico, reaching the second division before stepping away at 15 due to a knee injury. More recently, he has been training with Major League Soccer side Chicago Fire’s reserves.

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"(Football) has always been a huge part of my life and identity, and no matter where life has taken me, the dream of competing professionally never truly left my heart," Fernandez stated on the club's website.

The El Paso Locomotive FC management has hailed Fernández as a valuable addition to their squad, noting his potential as an attacking threat. The club anticipates league approval for his signing.

From Actor to Athlete

The 35-year-old actor's transition back to professional football comes after achieving significant recognition for his role as the optimistic AFC Richmond striker Dani Rojas. His previous soccer background, combined with a recent period of training and trials, has now paved the way for this real-life professional engagement. The club has openly welcomed him, with Fernández expressing gratitude for the opportunity to compete.

'Ted Lasso' star Cristo Fernández signs professional contract with USL Championship side El Paso Locomotive FC.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who is Cristo Fernández and what is he known for?
Cristo Fernández is an actor famous for playing the character Dani Rojas, a striker, in the Apple TV series Ted Lasso. He is now also a professional soccer player.
Q: What soccer team has Cristo Fernández signed with?
Cristo Fernández has signed a professional soccer contract with El Paso Locomotive FC, a team in the USL Championship, which is the second tier of American professional soccer.
Q: When was the contract announced and when might he play?
The contract was announced on Tuesday, May 12, 2026. He could potentially play in a cup match later this month.
Q: Why is this move significant for Cristo Fernández?
This move is significant because it allows Fernández to pursue his lifelong dream of playing professional soccer. He previously played soccer in his youth but stopped due to injury.
Q: What is El Paso Locomotive FC's view on signing Fernández?
El Paso Locomotive FC sees Fernández as a valuable addition to their team, expecting him to be a good attacking player. They are waiting for league approval for his signing.