Actor Cristo Fernández has signed a professional contract to play for the USL Championship club El Paso Locomotive FC [1].
The move mirrors the trajectory of his most famous role as Dani Rojas on the television series "Ted Lasso." By transitioning from the screen to a professional roster, Fernández turns a fictional narrative into a personal reality.
Reports of the signing emerged on May 13, 2026 [2]. Fernández, 35 [3], joined the El Paso side based in Texas after completing a trial period that lasted two months [3]. The trial served as the final step before the club offered him a professional contract [3].
This career shift aligns with the philosophy of his "Ted Lasso" character, who frequently used the phrase, “Fútbol is life” [4]. Fernández has long maintained a connection to the sport beyond his acting duties.
“I never fully gave up on returning to the field as a professional player,” Fernández said [5].
His arrival at El Paso Locomotive FC brings a unique intersection of entertainment and athletics to the USL Championship. While he is primarily known for his comedic and dramatic timing on screen, the two-month trial suggests a level of athletic readiness required for the professional level [3].
The signing comes as a realization of a lifelong dream for the actor. By stepping onto a professional pitch in the U.S., Fernández is bridging the gap between the scripted world of AFC Richmond and the competitive landscape of American soccer.
““Fútbol is life.””
This transition is rare in the entertainment industry, where actors typically engage in sports as hobbies rather than professional pursuits. By signing with a USL Championship side, Fernández leverages his public profile while validating his athletic ability through a rigorous trial process. The move may provide El Paso Locomotive FC with a significant marketing boost, drawing fans of the show to the stadium.
