Cristo Fernandez, the actor renowned for his portrayal of Dani Rojas in the Apple TV series Ted Lasso, has signed a professional soccer contract with El Paso Locomotive FC of the United Soccer League (USL).
The terms of the deal, announced on Tuesday, remain undisclosed and are subject to approval by the second-tier league and the relevant football federation.
Fernandez, 35, secured the contract following a two-month trial with the club, during which he featured in a pre-season match against New Mexico United. His journey in soccer began at youth level, but an injury at the age of 15 led him to pursue acting.
"No matter where life has taken me, the dream of competing professionally never truly left my heart," Fernandez stated.
"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."
Locomotive coach Junior Gonzalez praised Fernandez as a valuable addition, noting he provides another attacking threat while bringing passion and leadership to the dressing room.
Fernandez has featured in all three seasons of Ted Lasso since the popular TV show began in 2020.
A fourth season is due to be released later this year, with head coach Ted, played by Jason Sudeikis, set to return to London to coach a women’s team at AFC Richmond.
Fernandez also featured in a State Farm commercial “Bundle is Life” back in 2024 alongside the Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, who has won the Super Bowl on three occasions.
In the same year, Fernandez had a small role in Sonic the Hedgehog 3, a movie that also starred Jim Carrey and Keanu Reeves.
Now, in his mid-thirties, Fernandez is set to pursue his soccer dream after earning his first professional contract.
