From Fiction to Reality: ‘Ted Lasso’ Star Cristo Fernández Signs Professional Soccer Contract
In a rare instance of an actor’s on-screen persona mirroring their off-screen reality, Cristo Fernández, best known for his role as striker Dani Rojas in the hit Apple TV+ series Ted Lasso, has officially signed a professional soccer contract. The 35-year-old actor will join El Paso Locomotive FC, a club competing in the USL Championship, the second tier of professional soccer in the United States.
The move comes after Fernández completed an extensive two-month trial with the club, during which he participated in preseason activities to prove his readiness for the professional pitch.
A Lifelong Pursuit of the Pitch
For Fernández, the transition to professional sports is less of a career pivot and more of a return to his roots. Originally from Guadalajara, Mexico, Fernández began his soccer journey at the youth level with Tecos FC. He worked his way up to the second division of the now-extinct Liga MX side before a knee injury at the age of 15 forced him to step away from the sport to pursue acting.
Despite his successful acting career, the drive to compete professionally remained. Before signing with El Paso, Fernández spent time training with the reserves of the MLS side Chicago Fire and featured for Chicago Fire II, the club’s MLS Next Pro team, during a preseason friendly.
Reflecting on the opportunity, Fernández shared his passion on the club’s official website: “[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. Maybe I’m just a crazy man with crazy dreams.“
Impact on the El Paso Locomotive Roster
El Paso Locomotive FC, founded in 2018, views Fernández as a strategic addition to their attacking lineup. The club’s head coach, Junior Gonzalez, expressed confidence in how the actor’s arrival will influence both the team’s performance and its internal environment.
“Cristo is a great addition to our roster, adding another attacking threat to our forward line,” said Gonzalez. “His passion for the game and leadership qualities for our locker room allow us to continue growing the positive culture we strive for as a club.”
Fernández is expected to utilize the same striker position he famously portrayed in Ted Lasso, bringing a unique blend of professional training and high-energy leadership to the Texas-based club.
Key Takeaways: Cristo Fernández’s Professional Move
- New Club: El Paso Locomotive FC (USL Championship).
- Position: Striker/Forward.
- Background: Former youth player for Tecos FC in Mexico; actor known for Ted Lasso.
- Preparation: Completed a two-month trial and trained with Chicago Fire II.
- Motivation: Returning to a lifelong passion interrupted by a teenage knee injury.
As the USL Championship season progresses, fans and viewers alike will be watching to see if Fernández can translate his celebrated television performance into professional success on the field.
