Ted Lasso Actor Cristo Fernandez Signs with El Paso Locomotive
Cristo Fernandez has officially signed with Texas-based El Paso Locomotive, a club competing in the USL Championship, the second tier of American soccer. El Paso Locomotive began their inaugural season in the USL Championship in 2019.
The 35-year-old Mexican actor, best known for his role as Dani Rojas in the acclaimed Apple TV+ series Ted Lasso from 2020 to 2023, will now embark on a professional soccer career with the club after completing a two-month trial period.
Fernandez’s football journey began in his hometown of Guadalajara, where he played youth football. However, a knee injury at age 15 forced him to step away from the sport. Later, after relocating to London, he was cast in Ted Lasso, a show that has received multiple awards across its three series.
"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 said. He also trialled earlier this year with the second team of Major League Soccer’s Chicago Fire.
"I'm incredibly grateful to El Paso Locomotive FC – the club, coaches, staff, and especially my team-mates – for opening the doors and giving me the opportunity to compete from day one.
"This journey back to professional soccer is about believing in yourself, taking risks, and continuing to chase your dreams no matter how unexpected the path may be.
"Maybe I'm just a crazy man with crazy dreams... so being here with the 'Locos' actually makes perfect sense."
El Paso Locomotive’s head coach Junior Gonzalez expressed enthusiasm about the signing, stating:
"Cristo is a great addition to our roster, adding another attacking threat to our forward line."
