Ted Lasso Actor Cristo Fernandez Signs Pro Contract with El Paso Locomotive FC

Cristo Fernandez, the breakout star from Apple TV's Ted Lasso, has signed a professional contract with El Paso Locomotive FC of the USL Championship. The club announced the move on Tuesday.

Before landing scenes alongside Jason Sudeikis, Fernandez, 35, came up as a legitimate prospect in the youth system of Tecos FC in Guadalajara. A shattered knee at age 15 derailed his path to the pros and pushed him into acting. He won the role of Thierry Zoreaux, a character fueled by an infectious love for the game.

Off the soundstage, Fernandez kept sharpening his skills. He spent the last two months on a grueling trial in El Paso that earned him a spot on the roster.

In the club's statement, Fernandez said, "Futbol 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. 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."