Ted Lasso Actor Cristo Fernández Signs with US Soccer Club

Actor Cristo Fernández signed a professional soccer contract to play for El Paso Locomotive FC on May 12, 2026 ^[1].

The move transitions Fernández from portraying a professional athlete on the Apple TV+ series “Ted Lasso” to competing in the actual U.S. soccer league system. This crossover from entertainment to professional sports is rare and brings significant visibility to the league.

Fernández will play in the USL Championship, which is the second tier of U.S. soccer ^[2]. The club is based in El Paso, Texas ^[3]. Fernández said he wants to pursue a professional career and bring his on-screen passion for the sport to the real pitch ^[4].

“I’m thrilled to finally play the game I love at a professional level with El Paso Locomotive,” Fernández said ^[5].

The signing marks a unique moment for the franchise, blending pop culture with athletic competition. Mike Ramos, the sporting director for El Paso Locomotive FC, said Fernández brings the same energy and passion seen on screen and that the club is excited to have him in the squad ^[6].

While most actors who play athletes undergo training for their roles, few transition into signed professional contracts. Sarah Johnson, an entertainment editor for the Chicago Sun-Times, said seeing the character of Dani Rojas come to life on a real pitch is a dream for fans of the show ^[7].

Fernández previously gained international recognition for his role as the optimistic Dani Rojas, a character defined by his love for the game. His move to the USL Championship places him in a competitive environment where he will be expected to contribute to the team's performance on the field.