Ted Lasso Star Cristo Fernandez Explores Professional Soccer Opportunity with USL Club
Cristo Fernandez, the actor renowned for his portrayal of the exuberant striker Dani Rojas on the hit Apple TV series Ted Lasso, is making headlines not for his on-screen antics, but for a potential real-life soccer venture. The Mexican-born performer has been engaged in an informal tryout with El Paso Locomotive FC, a team competing in the USL Championship, raising questions about a possible shift to professional athletics.
Informal Tryout and Preseason Appearance
Fernandez, whose character's mantra "Futbol is life" has become iconic among fans, recently participated in a preseason match for El Paso Locomotive FC. During the club's game against New Mexico, he played for approximately 30 minutes and was captured celebrating with teammates in a social media post shared by the team. According to reports from The El Paso Times, Fernandez trained with the squad again on Tuesday and is expected to remain with the team into the following week.
The club has further fueled speculation by posting a teaser on its Instagram Stories, showcasing a podium with a team backdrop and the caption: "Something big is about to happen. Stay tuned." This has led to widespread anticipation regarding a potential official announcement involving Fernandez.
Fernandez's Soccer Background and Acting Career
Before his rise to fame on Ted Lasso, Fernandez had a substantial background in soccer. He played youth soccer in Mexico and joined Club Deportivo Estudiantes Tecos in Guadalajara at the age of 15. However, a knee injury forced him to abandon his athletic aspirations, prompting a pivot to acting. He developed a passion for the profession during college and eventually relocated to London, England, to pursue his career.
His soccer experience undoubtedly contributed to his convincing performance as a star striker on the television show, where he played a significant role in the first three seasons. Additionally, Fernandez reportedly played in a friendly match with Chicago FC's reserve squad two weeks prior, scoring a goal against Forward Madison. Despite these engagements, he currently holds no formal contract with El Paso Locomotive FC.
Club and League Regulations
El Paso Locomotive FC has declined to comment on Fernandez's potential signing, citing USL rules that prohibit the team from making him available to the media until an official contract is finalized. The club's regular-season opener is scheduled for this Saturday against the Colorado Springs Switchbacks, and Fernandez would only be eligible to play if he is signed before that match.
Future on Ted Lasso
As Fernandez explores this soccer opportunity, his future on Ted Lasso remains uncertain. The show's fourth season is set to debut this summer, with top-billed stars including Jason Sudeikis, Hannah Waddingham, Brendan Hunt, Juno Temple, Brett Goldstein, and Jeremy Swift all confirmed to return. Whether Fernandez will reprise his role as Dani Rojas has not been officially disclosed, adding another layer of intrigue to his career trajectory.
This development highlights the intersection of entertainment and sports, as a beloved television personality contemplates a leap into professional athletics. Fans of both Ted Lasso and soccer will be watching closely for updates on Fernandez's potential signing with El Paso Locomotive FC.
