EL PASO, Texas — Cristo Fernández, the charismatic actor best known to millions as the exuberant soccer player Dani Rojas on the Apple TV+ series Ted Lasso, has taken a bold step from fictional pitches to real ones, trialing with El Paso Locomotive FC in the USL Championship. The 35-year-old Mexican performer, whose on-screen enthusiasm for the beautiful game endeared him to fans worldwide, logged 30 minutes of playing time during the club's recent victory over New Mexico United, according to reports from Goal and ESPN.
The match, which took place over the weekend at Southwest University Park in El Paso, saw Locomotive secure a hard-fought win against their rivals. Fernández's appearance came as part of a trial stint with the team, coached by Junior Gonzalez, who is now evaluating whether to offer the actor a professional contract in the coming week. Sources close to the club indicated that Fernández impressed with his energy and familiarity with the game, though no final decision has been announced.
This isn't Fernández's first foray into professional soccer trials this season. According to MIR97 Media, he spent time with Chicago Fire II, the reserve team affiliated with Major League Soccer's Chicago Fire FC, a few weeks prior. During that period, he even found the back of the net in a match against Forward Madison FC, a side from the USL League One, contributing to a victory for the team. Details on the exact date of that game remain sparse, but it reportedly occurred in late summer, highlighting Fernández's ongoing pursuit of a spot on a competitive roster.
Fernández's journey to these trials is rooted in a lifelong passion for soccer that predates his acting career. Growing up in Mexico, he was a promising youth player for hometown club Tecos Fútbol Club, part of the Liga MX system. Tragedy struck at age 15 when a serious knee injury sidelined him permanently, derailing his dreams of a professional career. Undeterred, he pivoted to the performing arts, studying acting at university and eventually landing roles that would catapult him to international fame.
Ted Lasso, which aired its first season in 2020, transformed Fernández into a breakout star. His portrayal of Dani Rojas — a Mexican forward transferred to AFC Richmond, known for his infectious positivity and catchphrase 'Fútbol is life!' — captured the hearts of viewers during the show's three-season run, which concluded in 2023. The series, created by Jason Sudeikis and Bill Lawrence, blended comedy with heartfelt moments about teamwork and resilience, drawing parallels to real-life sports narratives.
Off the screen, Fernández has long been an avid soccer supporter, frequently attending professional matches in both Mexico and the United States. His social media presence often features highlights from games, underscoring his deep connection to the sport. The Instagram post shared by El Paso Locomotive FC after the New Mexico United match captured Fernández celebrating alongside teammates, arms raised in triumph, a scene reminiscent of his character's jubilant style on the show.
While video footage from the game shows no penalties taken by Fernández — sparing any direct nods to the memorable greyhound-crossing-pitch episode from Ted Lasso — his participation marks a rare instance of an actor transitioning back to the field they once aspired to conquer. Club officials have remained tight-lipped on specifics, but Gonzalez is said to be considering Fernández's fitness and tactical fit as the USL Championship season progresses into its playoff phase.
The USL Championship, the second tier of professional soccer in the United States and Canada, provides a platform for players seeking to advance to MLS or sustain careers abroad. El Paso Locomotive FC, founded in 2019, has built a loyal fanbase in the border city, drawing crowds to their home games with a mix of local talent and international signings. Fernández's trial adds an element of celebrity intrigue, potentially boosting visibility for the league, which has seen attendance rise steadily since its inception.
Precedents for such crossovers between entertainment and athletics are not entirely unprecedented, though actors returning to sports remain outliers. British hardman Vinnie Jones, a former Wimbledon and Leeds United midfielder, parlayed his tough-guy persona into a Hollywood career, appearing in films like Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels. Similarly, Eric Cantona, the iconic Manchester United forward, ventured into acting post-retirement, starring in movies such as Looking for Eric.
On the flip side, tales of performers who nearly made it in sports abound. Sean Connery, the legendary James Bond actor, played for Scottish club Bonnyrigg Rose Athletic in his youth during the 1940s. Legend has it that Manchester United manager Sir Matt Busby spotted him during a casual kickabout and offered a contract, though Connery ultimately chose acting after a brief stint. These stories illustrate the thin line between the worlds of sport and screen, where talent can manifest in unexpected ways.
For Fernández, the trials represent more than a publicity stunt; they are a personal reclamation of a path interrupted by injury. At 35, he is at an age where many soccer players wind down their careers, but his enthusiasm suggests a determination to contribute, even if in a developmental or reserve capacity. Chicago Fire II officials did not comment on his performance there, but the goal against Forward Madison — scored in a league match that helped secure a 2-1 win — speaks to his retained skill.
As El Paso Locomotive deliberates, the soccer community watches with interest. The club's next games include a home fixture against Oakland Roots SC on September 14, followed by an away match in Tulsa. If signed, Fernández could debut in these contests, blending his acting fame with on-field action. Fans of Ted Lasso have flooded social media with support, using hashtags like #FutbolIsLife to cheer his real-world endeavors.
Beyond the immediate trials, Fernández's story highlights the growing intersection of pop culture and sports in America. With MLS expanding and streaming platforms investing in soccer content, figures like him bridge gaps for new audiences. Whether he secures a contract or not, his efforts underscore the enduring allure of the game, proving that for some, fútbol truly is life.
In the broader context of USL, teams like El Paso are scouting diverse talent to build competitive squads. The league's structure allows for trials like Fernández's, giving opportunities to players from varied backgrounds. As the season heads toward its climax, with playoffs set to begin in November, Locomotive's decision could add a feel-good narrative to their campaign.
Ultimately, Fernández's pursuit invites reflection on second chances in sports. From a knee injury in his teens to global stardom and now back to the pitch, his arc is one of perseverance. Club sources suggest a contract announcement may come as early as next week, keeping the soccer world — and Ted Lasso devotees — on the edge of their seats.