Ted Lasso actor Cristo Fernández has signed a professional contract with US second-tier side El Paso Locomotive, transitioning from portraying a footballer on screen to playing the sport professionally. The 35-year-old, who played youth football in Mexico before retiring at 15 due to a knee injury, played Dani Rojas in the Apple TV series.
Fernández had been training with the reserves of Major League Soccer side Chicago Fire earlier this year as he pursued a return to football. He underwent a two-month trial with El Paso Locomotive, including a pre-season appearance, before securing the contract.
“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,” Fernández said on the club’s website. “Maybe I’m just a crazy man with crazy dreams.”
El Paso Locomotive, founded in 2018, currently sit fourth in Group B of the USL Championship. Head coach Junior Gonzalez praised the signing, stating, “Cristo is a great addition to our roster, adding another attacking threat to our forward line. 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.”
