Actor Cristo Fernández joins US club in surprise professional football deal
By BBC, May 14, 2026Ted Lasso actor Cristo Fernández has signed for American second-tier side El Paso Locomotive after a two-month trial.
The 35-year-old Mexican, who played Dani Rojas in the hit Apple TV+ programme between 2020 and 2023, will now take up a different role for the USL Championship side.
Fernández played youth football in his home city of Guadalajara, but stepped away from the game at the age of 15 because of a knee injury.
The USL Championship is the second tier of professional football in the United States, featuring clubs that often develop players aiming to reach Major League Soccer (MLS).
Having moved to London, he was later cast in Ted Lasso, a globally successful comedy series that won multiple awards during its run and became one of Apple TV+’s most popular productions.
His character, Dani Rojas, was widely known for his enthusiasm and famous catchphrase, “Football is life.”
Fernández has previously spoken about how football remained an important part of his identity even after shifting into acting, and he has continued to stay connected to the sport alongside his entertainment career.
Earlier this year, he also trialled with the second team of Major League Soccer side Chicago Fire, further underlining his ambition to return to competitive football.
“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,” said Fernandez, who also trialled with the second team of Major League Soccer side Chicago Fire earlier this year.
“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.”
“Cristo is a great addition to our roster, adding another attacking threat to our forward line,” said Locomotive head coach Junior Gonzalez.