From the pitch on "Ted Lasso" to the pitch in El Paso, Cristo Fernández is writing a story that feels straight out of a sports movie.
The actor, beloved by fans as the ever-optimistic Dani Rojas on the hit Apple TV series, has officially traded his costume for a real jersey. Fernández signed a contract with El Paso Locomotive FC of the USL Championship on Tuesday, May 12, making the leap from fiction to reality after nearly two decades away from competitive play.
At 35, Fernández isn't just making a cameo. He's been training with the club for two months, grinding through preseason trials to earn his spot. Locomotive head coach Junior Gonzalez couldn't hide his excitement, calling Fernández "a great addition to our roster" who adds "another attacking threat to our forward line."
"His passion for the game and leadership qualities for our locker room allow us to continue growing the positive culture we strive for as a club," Gonzalez added.
Fernández's journey back to the field is one of resilience. He started in the academy of his hometown team, Tecos FC, but a serious knee injury at age 15 derailed his playing career and sent him down the acting path. That path led him to global fame as the cheerful forward who famously declared, "Fútbol is life!" But the game never left him.
"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," Fernández said. "I'm incredibly grateful to El Paso Locomotive FC — the club, coaches, staff, and especially my teammates — for opening the doors and giving me the opportunity to compete from day one."
Before landing in El Paso, Fernández also spent time with the Chicago Fire's reserve side during preseason, sharpening his skills and proving he's serious about this second act.
El Paso is already deep into the 2026 season, sitting at 4 wins, 2 draws, and 3 losses through nine matches. Fernández joins a squad hungry for attacking firepower as they push up the USL standings.
For fans wondering about his TV future, the fourth season of "Ted Lasso" is set to debut on Apple TV on August 5, though Fernández was notably absent from the announced cast list. One thing is certain — whether on screen or on the pitch, this is a player who lives by his famous motto: fútbol is life.