Ted Lasso star Cristo Fernandez signs for professional football club following two month trial

Ted Lasso actor Cristo Fernandez has signed a professional contract with American second-tier football club El Paso Locomotive.

The Hollywood star has fulfilled a lifelong dream after quitting football aged 15 due to injury.

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Fernandez, 35, impressed enough in the two-month trial to earn a pro deal.

He revealed he never gave up his dream of playing professionally, despite his acting career shooting him to fame as he played Dani Rojas in Ted Lasso between 2020 and 2023.

“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.

“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.

“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.

“It’s a dream come true, it’s hard to put into words. It has been lots of hard work.”

Fernandez is not the only one delighted to have secured a contract.

Fans of the show are buzzing for the Mexican actor, with many responding to the news by quoting a famous line from his character Rojas: “Football is life”.

One fan wrote: “Okay this cool”.

Another added: “Real method actor, stays in character even after filming. Respect.”

A third commented: “Football really is life.”

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