Cristo Fernández, the actor-turned-footballer, has made an impressive return to professional soccer by signing with El Paso Locomotive in the USL Championship, nearly two decades after an injury curtailed his original career at the age of 15. Following his stint on the hit Apple TV series “Ted Lasso,” where he portrays the beloved character Dani Rojas, Fernández has found his way back to the pitch, an endeavour he embraces with enthusiasm.
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The 35-year-old athlete reflects on this significant moment as a full-circle achievement. After suffering a knee injury while playing for Tecos Fútbol Club, he pivoted towards a career in acting, eventually earning accolades for his role in “Ted Lasso,” which won a Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series in 2022. His return to football follows a rigorous two-month trial period with El Paso Locomotive, during which he demonstrated both skill and determination in a preseason match against New Mexico United.
Grateful for the opportunity to compete once again, Fernández stated, “Right now, I’m just thankful for the chance to play.” While he acknowledges the excitement of rejoining the sport, he also expresses a strong desire to prove himself to both his teammates and supporters. “There’s still a long way to go and still things to prove to myself and the people that are believing in me,” he said.
Fernández’s unique position as an actor in a sports team often leads to playful banter among teammates. He quipped about their good-natured ribbing: “I’m grateful they just take the mickey out of me,” noting that jokes about his acting career remain light-hearted. Despite the light-hearted teasing, his teammates have welcomed him with open arms, fostering a supportive environment that he greatly appreciates. “I miss just playing soccer every day. I miss the energy in the locker room,” he added, highlighting the positive atmosphere he now enjoys at El Paso Locomotive.
Beyond returning to the sport, Fernández has embarked on a partnership with Tequila Cazadores to celebrate soccer fans through the launch of their campaign, “Carded by Cristo.” This initiative introduces a new line of playful fan cards that creatively reinterpret traditional yellow and red cards as symbols of pride and identity for supporters of the game. “This campaign is for them. ¡Vamos, real fans!” he exclaimed, underlining the joy and camaraderie that football fosters among fans.
From June 16, fans aged 21 and over can acquire these Real Fan Cards through the Tequila Cazadores website, where they can also participate in quizzes designed to align them with a card that reflects their personality. The campaign is intended to encapsulate the diverse spectrums of football fandom, from the superstitious supporter to the self-proclaimed tactician on the sidelines.
Alongside the cards, fans will also have the opportunity to learn how to create Fernández’s signature game day cocktail, dubbed “El Golazo.” Additionally, they stand a chance to interact with the actor at future events, as he remains committed to engaging with the fan base that has supported him throughout his career.
Fernández highlighted the importance of community and joy that sports bring, stating, “I think a good shot and then sharing it with your friends, there’s nothing better than that.” His return to football, coupled with his work alongside Tequila Cazadores, symbolizes not only a personal triumph but also a celebration of the fans who live and breathe the sport.
As El Paso Locomotive continues to compete amid the global focus on the forthcoming FIFA World Cup, Fernández embraces the duality of his career as both an athlete and an entertainer. He stands as a testament to the belief that dreams, no matter how distant they may seem, are always worth pursuing. Whether on the pitch or in front of the camera, Cristo Fernández is a name that continues to inspire through both realms of his extraordinary journey.