Cristo Fernandez, known for his role in “Ted Lasso,” is emphasizing that his recent contract with USL Championship club El Paso Locomotive is no mere publicity stunt. After officially signing with the team, the actor-turned-athlete expressed his commitment to proving himself on the field: “At the end of the day, I can say anything, but the only thing I can prove is my performance and what I bring to the team. This is real life.”
Many fans recognize Fernandez as Dani Rojas, the enthusiastic yet fictional soccer player from “Ted Lasso.” The announcement of his signing with El Paso raised eyebrows, leading some to speculate that it was a marketing gimmick. However, for Fernandez, this move symbolizes the realization of a lifelong dream rooted in a passion for soccer that predates his television career.
“It’s a dream come true. It’s hard to describe in words,” he remarked, alluding to the effort he has invested in pursuing his passion. Growing up in Guadalajara, Fernandez’s childhood revolved around soccer. He recalled, “The only thing I did was play soccer.” His admiration for local Liga MX club Chivas and notable players like Adolfo “Bofo” Bautista and Oswaldo Sanchez fueled his aspirations from an early age.
Fernandez aimed to carve a niche for himself in the sports realm. When he shared his intentions with his parents, he humorously noted the shock it caused. As a teenager, he trained diligently, balancing soccer with school while playing for youth teams, including a stint with Tecos, a former Liga MX outfit. Unfortunately, adversity struck when a severe knee injury sidelined him at 19, followed by additional injuries that continued to impede his progress.
Path to Reinvention
Feeling defeated by unforeseen setbacks, he decided to take a break from the sport and pursue a degree in communications. It was during this time that he discovered a new passion for acting. “Telling my parents I wanted to be an actor gave them another heart attack,” he laughed, recalling the transition.
After moving to the UK, Fernandez graduated from the Guildford School of Drama in 2018 and began his acting career. By 2020, he won acclaim as Rojas in the Emmy Award-winning “Ted Lasso.” Ironically, while he had distanced himself from soccer, the sport became instrumental in his acting success.
Despite his acting career taking off, the allure of soccer remained strong. His connection with former Mexican national team captain Andres Guardado reignited his desire to step back onto the field. He began training with a performance coach and physical therapist, pushing his limits in preparation for a professional comeback.
A New Chapter
Fernandez kept his ambition of returning to professional soccer under wraps until he felt ready to share it with his family, especially his father, who supported him even as he passed away last December. Leveraging industry connections, he secured a trial with MLS’s Chicago Fire reserve team, which eventually led to his signing with El Paso after a successful two-month trial.
Entering this new chapter, Fernandez is acutely aware of the skepticism surrounding his transition from actor to athlete. “I understand pressure, but I think anything in life comes with pressure,” he stated. He described himself as a dedicated individual, ready to work hard and do his best at every opportunity.
Now stepping into the role of a goal-scoring forward, Fernandez takes inspiration from iconic Mexican striker Luis “Matador” Hernandez. With the pressure mounting, he aims to embody the charisma and energy that Hernandez is known for. Following necessary league paperwork completion, he anticipates a busy second-division season stretching into late October and possibly playoff action into November.
While still involved in personal projects alongside his sister and their production company, Espectro MX Films, Fernandez is resolutely focused on soccer in the immediate future. At 35, he offers a wealth of experience on the field, yet remains flexible about what lies ahead. “Nobody knows,” he mused, “Right now, I’m focused on playing football, training every day, and helping El Paso Locomotive have a successful season.”
Regardless of the outcomes, whether filled with struggles or triumphs reminiscent of a Hollywood script, Fernandez is fully committed to this beautiful game. “Soccer has given me both the best and the saddest moments,” he concluded, reaffirming that soccer remains his true calling.
