From Dani Rojas to the USL: Cristo Fernandez Earns an El Paso Locomotive Deal
Cristo Fernández returns to pro soccer after a two-month trial, adding another attacking option for El Paso Locomotive.
- On Tuesday, May 12, 2026, El Paso Locomotive FC announced the signing of actor and forward Cristo Fernández following a two-month trial period with the team.
- The 35-year-old previously played in the youth system of Mexican club Tecos FC before a knee injury at 15 forced him to pivot to acting, earning international acclaim portraying Dani Rojas on 'Ted Lasso.'
- "Cristo is a great addition to our roster, adding another attacking threat," Locomotive Head Coach Junior Gonzalez said. Fernández trained with the squad during his trial, featuring in a preseason match against New Mexico United.
- The Guadalajara native joins a roster currently featuring five forwards and seven midfielders as the club prepares to return to Southwest University Park on May 27 to host AV Alta FC in a Prinx Tires USL Cup match.
- Competing professionally fulfills a lifelong dream for Fernández, who stated, "Fútbol 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.
113 Articles
113 Articles
Ted Lasso actor who played Dani Rojas is now a professional soccer player
Apple TV’s hit series Ted Lasso inspired viewers to “Believe,” and it seems that message resonated strongly with the show’s actors too. Dani Rojas actor Cristo Fernández has just signed a contract to become a professional soccer player. more…
Ted Lasso actor signs for professional club in footballing fairytale
Ted Lasso star Cristo Fernandez has turned fiction into reality after signing for American second-tier club El Paso Locomotive following a two-month trial.The 35-year-old Mexican actor became a cult hero around the world for his portrayal of the endlessly enthusiastic Dani Rojas in Ted Lasso, where his character famously declared: "Football is life."Now Fernandez is preparing to test that philosophy in professional football.El Paso, who compete …
The man who embodies Dani Rojas in the success series »Ted Lasso« can play football. It soon becomes clear. Now Cristo Fernández really hires professionally – with a US second division.
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 61% of the sources are Center
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
