Cristo Fernández Leaves Acting for Pro Soccer: Joins USL Championship’s El Paso Locomotive

Cristo Fernández, best known for his role as Dani Rojas in the hit Apple TV+ series Ted Lasso, is returning to professional soccer. Fernández has signed with the USL Championship team El Paso Locomotive FC after completing a two-month trial with the club.

The announcement was made on May 12, 2026, via the team’s official X (formerly Twitter) account:

"The rumors were true. Welcome to El Paso, Cristo Fernández." — El Paso Locomotive FC

El Paso Locomotive FC confirmed the signing, stating:

"El Paso Locomotive FC announced today that it has signed forward Cristo Fernández. Learn more: https://t.co/810iopg2NN #VamosLocos #VamosElPaso"

The USL Championship (USLC) is a professional men’s soccer league in the United States, sanctioned by the U.S. Soccer Federation as a Division II league—one tier below Major League Soccer.

From Youth Soccer to Hollywood and Back

Fernández began his soccer journey at the youth level with Tecos FC but had to step away at age 15 due to injury. He later transitioned into acting, achieving widespread recognition for his role in Ted Lasso.

Reactions from the Club and Player

Junior Gonzalez, Head Coach of El Paso Locomotive FC, shared his thoughts on Fernández’s signing:

"Cristo is a great addition to our roster, adding another attacking threat to our forward line. His passion for the game and leadership qualities for our locker room allow us to continue growing the positive culture we strive for as a club."

Fernández expressed his gratitude and excitement in a statement:

"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 heart. 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."

He added:

"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. Maybe I’m just a crazy man with crazy dreams … so being here with the ‘Locos’ actually makes perfect sense. ¡Vamos Locos!"

Ted Lasso Season 4 Update

While Fernández will not return to Ted Lasso, the show is set to premiere its fourth season on August 5, 2026, on Apple TV+. The season will see Jason Sudeikis reprise his role as Ted Lasso, coaching a second-division women’s football team. Returning cast members include Hannah Waddingham, Juno Temple, Brett Goldstein, Brendan Hunt, and Jeremy Swift.

The new season will introduce several new characters while continuing storylines from previous seasons. New episodes will debut weekly, concluding on October 7, 2026.