Mexican actor Cristo Fernandez has signed with American second-tier club El Paso Locomotive following a two-month trial period.
The 35-year-old, best known for portraying Dani Rojas in the popular Apple TV+ series Ted Lasso from 2020 to 2023, is now set to begin a new chapter in professional football with the USL Championship side.
Fernandez previously played youth football in his hometown of Guadalajara before stepping away from the sport at the age of 15 due to a knee injury.
After relocating to London, he landed the role in Ted Lasso, a series that earned multiple awards during its three-season run.
“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.
The actor also revealed he had earlier trained with the reserve side of Major League Soccer club 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,” he added.
“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 head coach Junior Gonzalez welcomed the signing, describing Fernandez as an exciting addition to the squad.
“Cristo is a great addition to our roster, adding another attacking threat to our forward line,” Gonzalez said.
