Cristo Fernandez Makes Professional Debut for El Paso Locomotive FC

Cristo Fernández Makes Professional Soccer Debut for El Paso Locomotive FC

Cristo Fernández, the 35-year-old actor globally recognized for his role as the energetic striker Dani Rojas in the Apple TV series “Ted Lasso,” officially transitioned from the screen to the professional pitch on Saturday. Fernández made his competitive debut for the USL Championship club El Paso Locomotive FC during a group-stage match of the Prinx Tires USL Cup against New Mexico United.

The match, held at Southwest University Park in downtown El Paso, saw Fernández enter the game as a substitute for forward Rubio Rubín in the 79th minute. Before a crowd of more than 5,000 fans, the actor—wearing the number 91 shirt—recorded three touches during his time on the field. The appearance was marked by a moment of intensity in the 87th minute when Fernández received a yellow card following a collision with the opposing goalkeeper during a cross.

The contest remained scoreless at the time of his substitution, but New Mexico United secured a 2-0 victory with two late goals in the closing minutes.

A Return to the Pitch After Decades

For Fernández, the debut represents the fulfillment of an ambition that predates his acting career. Born in Guadalajara, Mexico, Fernández was a promising youth soccer player in the academy of Tecos FC. However, he stepped away from the sport at age 15 due to a knee injury. He later played lower-level soccer in Mexico and Puerto Rico before shifting his focus toward his acting career.

His journey back to professional soccer began earlier this year when he trained with Chicago Fire II, the reserve side of the MLS club Chicago Fire. Following this, he underwent an extensive two-month trial with El Paso Locomotive. Fernández officially signed with the team in May, though his debut was delayed for several weeks while the club processed his work visa.

At 35 years old, Fernández is the oldest player on the El Paso roster and the fifth-oldest player in the entire USL Championship. Regarding the pressure of his dual career, Fernández stated that he has always faced pressure in his endeavors. “I think of myself as a hardworking man, and I have never been the best in anything, but I always give my best and work hard for it,” he said.

From “Fútbol is Life” to Professional Reality

Fernández gained international fame in 2020 as a breakout star of “Ted Lasso,” portraying the wide-eyed professional soccer player Dani Rojas. The character’s mantra, “Fútbol is life,” became a cultural touchstone. Fernández has often reflected on the personal resonance of that phrase, noting that soccer has provided him with both his best and saddest moments.

Upon signing with El Paso, the actor expressed deep gratitude to the club’s staff and his teammates for the opportunity. “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,” Fernández said.

While his athletic career is now active, his work in entertainment continues. A fourth series of “Ted Lasso” is scheduled to begin on Apple TV on August 5. While the show’s narrative is shifting focus to a women’s team, reports indicate that Fernández may make guest appearances. Beyond his role on the show, Fernández has also appeared in films including “Spider-Man: No Way Home,” “Transformers: Rise of the Beasts,” and “Sonic the Hedgehog 3,” and he founded a production company with his sister.

Stakes for El Paso Locomotive FC

The debut of Fernández occurred during a high-profile period for the club. The match against New Mexico United was part of the “Derby Del Camino Real,” one of the most prominent rivalries in the USL Championship.

Following the conclusion of the Prinx Tires USL Cup group play, El Paso Locomotive will return to league action. The team is currently seventh in the Western Conference, holding a position that keeps them in contention for the final playoff spot in the 25-club league. The club is scheduled to face FC Tulsa on July 18 in Oklahoma, followed by a match against San Antonio FC on August 15 at Toyota Field.

Career Milestones

| Milestone | Detail |
| :— | :— |
| Professional Debut | July 2026 (vs. New Mexico United) |
| Signing Date | May 2026 |
| Youth Background | Tecos FC (Jalisco, Mexico) |
| Age | 35 |
| Jersey Number | 91 |

As the season progresses, the club and its fans look toward the remainder of the schedule, with Fernández balancing his professional athletic pursuit alongside his ongoing career in film and television.

Find more reporting in our Sports section.