Cristó Fernández Makes Professional Soccer Debut with El Paso Locomotive

On a Saturday in July 2026, actor-turned-forward Cristó Fernández entered the United Soccer League Cup match for El Paso Locomotive FC against New Mexico United. Substituted in the 79th minute for forward Rubio Rubín, Fernández wore No. 91, received a yellow card, and saw the Texas side fall 2-0. The game took place at Southwest University Park before a crowd of more than 5,000 fans.

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Fernández is best known for portraying the exuberant striker Dani Rojas on the Apple TV+ series *Ted Lasso*. Prior to his acting career, he trained in the youth system of former Liga MX club Tecos FC. Injuries in his early twenties halted his professional aspirations, prompting a shift to acting. In early 2026 he resumed physical training with a performance coach, a physical therapist, and a soccer clinic in Mexico, leading to a trial with MLS side Chicago Fire’s reserve team and subsequently a two-month trial with El Paso. He signed with the Locomotive in May 2026 after the trial.

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Fernández described his debut as the fulfillment of a lifelong dream, emphasizing gratitude toward the club, its staff, and his teammates for providing an immediate opportunity. He framed the return to professional football as a personal test of perseverance and self-belief, noting that the journey reflects his commitment to “keep giving it our all.” He also expressed optimism about future contributions to the team and the possibility of guest appearances on *Ted Lasso* Season 4.

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• “Fútbol 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 hear,” — Cristó Fernández

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• “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.” — Cristó Fernández

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• “This journey back to professional fútbol soccer is about believing in yourself, taking risks, and continuing to chase your dreams no matter how unexpected the path may be. Because as we say in Mexico: hay que seguirle echando ganas (let’s keep giving it our all). Siempre agradecido con Dios, mi familia y amistades por creer en mí. Maybe I’m just a crazy man with crazy dreams… so being here with the ‘Locos’ actually makes perfect sense. ¡Vamos Locos!” — Cristó Fernández

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• “Football has given me both the best moments, the sad moments,” he told ESPN in May. “I guess that’s why, for me, football is life.” — Cristó Fernández

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With his USL debut completed, Fernández aims to solidify his role on the field while balancing his acting commitments, including potential cameo opportunities in the upcoming *Ted Lasso* season.

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