From Actor to Professional Soccer Player: Ted Lasso Star’s Ambition to Switch Careers

One of the most beloved characters on Apple TV+’s hit show “Ted Lasso” is Dani Rojas, played by actor Cristo Fernández. But did you know that Fernández is not just a talented actor, he’s also pursuing a career in professional soccer in the US? It’s true! The 35-year-old Mexican-born actor has been training with El Paso Locomotive FC, a team in the USL Championship, the American second division soccer league.

In a surprising turn of events, Fernández even got to play thirty minutes in a preseason friendly match against New Mexico United, as the club considers offering him a professional contract. This career change may seem unexpected, but Fernández actually has a background in soccer. He played for the youth teams of Mexican club Estudiantes Tecos before a knee injury redirected him towards acting.

After gaining fame with his role in “Ted Lasso,” Fernández is now pursuing his childhood dream of becoming a professional soccer player. In addition to training with El Paso Locomotive FC, he also spent time with the Chicago Fire II reserve team in the MLS Next Pro league. It’s clear that Fernández’s passion for soccer is as strong as his talent for acting, and fans are excited to see where this new chapter in his career will take him. So, whether he’s scoring goals on the field or delivering lines on screen, Cristo Fernández continues to impress audiences with his versatility and determination.