Cristo Fernández makes professional soccer debut for El Paso Locomotive

The boundary between television fiction and professional sports blurred on Saturday, when actor Cristo Fernández made his professional soccer debut for El Paso Locomotive FC. Fernández, widely recognized for his portrayal of the exuberant striker Dani Rojas in the series Ted Lasso, entered the field as a late-game substitute during the USL Championship club’s matchup against their rivals, New Mexico United, in the Prinx Tires USL Cup.

The 35-year-old entered the match in the 79th minute, wearing the number 91 shirt and replacing forward Rubio Rubín. While the game remained scoreless at the time of his arrival, the evening ultimately resulted in a 2-0 defeat for El Paso, ending the club's chances of advancing out of their group. Shortly after his entry, New Mexico forward Joseph Quiah broke the deadlock. Fernández’s appearance was marked by physical intensity; in the 87th minute, he received a yellow card following a collision with New Mexico United goalkeeper Kristopher Shakes during a cross attempt. Two minutes later, New Mexico secured their second Goal.

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For Fernández, the debut represents the realization of a goal that predates his acting success. Growing up in Guadalajara, Mexico, he trained within the youth system of Tecos FC, but his aspirations for a professional career were derailed at age 15 due to a knee injury. After pivoting to acting and gaining international fame for his role as the upbeat Dani Rojas—whose signature catchphrase Fútbol is life! became a cultural touchstone—Fernández returned to the sport. He spent the last year undergoing rigorous physical training with performance coaches and specialists, eventually testing with the Chicago Fire’s reserve squad before securing a two-month trial and subsequent contract with El Paso in May 2026.

The path to his debut was not immediate. Although he signed with the club in May, his first appearance was delayed for weeks while he awaited the processing of his work visa. Upon signing, he became the oldest player on the current El Paso roster and the fifth-oldest in the 25-club USL Championship. El Paso head coach Junior Gonzalez described the signing as a strategic move, noting that Fernández adds an attacking threat and leadership qualities to the squad.

Addressing the skepticism that often accompanies high-profile career shifts, Fernández has emphasized that his return to the pitch is a sincere commitment rather than a publicity move.

"At the end of the day, I can tell you anything, but the only thing that’s going to prove anything will be me on the pitch and the performance and what I bring on the field,"

Cristo Fernández, player, via ESPN

He further noted,

"I also understand who I am, and that a big part of why I’m here can also be related to my work in other fields … [but] this is real life."

Cristo Fernández, player, via ESPN

The sporting community has monitored his transition with interest, noting the juxtaposition of his acting credentials and his athletic pursuit. His career outside of Sports continues to flourish, with roles in films such as Spider-Man: No Way Home, Transformers: Rise of the Beasts, and Sonic the Hedgehog 3. He is also slated to reprise his role as Dani Rojas in the upcoming fourth season of Ted Lasso, which begins on 5 August.

What to Watch Next

• League Resumption: El Paso Locomotive FC now shifts its focus back to the USL Championship league table. The club currently sits seventh in the Western Conference.
• Upcoming Match: The team is scheduled to travel to Tulsa, Oklahoma, to face FC Tulsa on 18 July 2026.

Following the final whistle on Saturday, Fernández took to social media to reflect on the milestone.

"Thank you God, family, friends, my people. Let's keep working hard."

Cristo Fernández, player, via Instagram Story/Goal

While his debut concluded with a loss, the actor remains focused on the season ahead and the opportunity to contribute to El Paso's standing in the conference.