In a move that blurs the lines between fiction and reality, Cristo Fernandez—the actor who brought the eternally optimistic Dani Rojas to life on the hit series Ted Lasso—has officially signed with USL Championship side El Paso Locomotive FC, the club announced Tuesday.
Fernandez, 35, joins the Locos after impressing during a two-month trial, which included a preseason appearance against New Mexico United. While the terms of the contract remain undisclosed, the signing marks a remarkable return to professional soccer for the actor, whose character on the show famously declared, "Fútbol is life!"
"This journey back to professional futbol is about believing in yourself, taking risks, and continuing to chase your dreams no matter how unexpected the path may be," Fernandez said in a club release. "Because as we say in Mexico: hay que seguirle echando ganas (let's keep giving it our all)... Maybe I'm just a crazy man with crazy dreams... so being here with the 'Locos' actually makes perfect sense. ¡Vamos Locos!"
Fernandez’s soccer journey began at the youth level with Tecos FC, but a knee injury forced him away from the pitch and into the world of acting. Now, he’s turning that full-circle moment into a real-life underdog story that fans of the show—and the sport—can rally behind.
"Futbol 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," Fernandez added. "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."
The Locos, currently sitting at 4-3-2 on the season, are set to host AV Alta FC on March 27 in El Paso. Coming off a 10-9-11 campaign last year, the club is looking to build momentum—and Fernandez is expected to add attacking depth to the forward line.
"Cristo is a great addition to our roster, adding another attacking threat to our forward line," said Locos head coach Junior Gonzalez. "His passion for the game and leadership qualities in our locker room allow us to continue growing the positive culture we strive for as a club."
Whether you’re a Ted Lasso fan, a USL follower, or just love a good comeback story, this signing is one to watch—and it’s proof that sometimes, life really does imitate art.