“Ted Lasso” Star Cristo Fernández Signs Professional Contract with U.S. Soccer Team After 2-Month Trial

Anna Lazarus CaplanWed, May 13, 2026 at 4:03 PM UTC

0

Cristo Fernández on "Ted Lasso"
Credit: Apple TV+ -

Ted Lasso star Cristo Fernández has signed a contract to play pro soccer

The Mexican actor will play for El Paso Locomotive

Fernández played soccer on the youth level in Mexico before a knee injury derailed his career at age 15

Fútbol is life for Cristo Fernández!

The Ted Lasso alum is taking his talents back to where it all started on the soccer pitch, and has signed a contract with El Paso Locomotive, the USL Championship team based in the Texas city, the club announced on Tuesday, May 12.

“The rumors were true. Welcome to El Paso, Cristo Fernández,” the team wrote on X.

Fernández, 35, signed with the team after a two-month trial, according to ESPN.

"Cristo is a great addition to our roster, adding another attacking threat," Locomotive coach Junior Gonzalez said. "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."

For Fernández, it’s a return to his roots. The Mexican actor played youth soccer in his native Guadalajara but stopped after he suffered a knee injury when he was 15.

Advertisement

Cristo Fernández
Credit: Apple TV+

"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,” he said. "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."

Follow your favorite athletes on and off the field with PEOPLE's free sports newsletter — sign up now!

In real life, Fernández plays forward, just like his lovable Ted Lasso persona.

In 2023, he told PEOPLE that he was savoring his experience working on the show over three seasons.

"I think the messages and the different topics we're going to touch [on] are very powerful," he told PEOPLE before season 3. "And there's more football too, soccer. So I think people are going to be very happy."

on People

Original Article on Source

Source: “AOL Entertainment”