While the latest trailer confirms that the show is heading in an exciting new direction, many of the biggest questions remain centered on who's back, who's out, and the new players arriving. Ted Lasso is finally making its long-awaited return, and Apple TV+ has already given fans a first look at what promises to be a fresh chapter for the Emmy-winning series. While the latest trailer confirms that the show is heading in an exciting new direction, many of the biggest questions remain centered on who’s back, who’s out, and the new players arriving. The beloved comedy has built its reputation on heartfelt storytelling, memorable characters, and soccer, and the upcoming season appears determined to preserve that winning formula. The club enters a completely different era, bringing new challenges while maintaining the warmth and optimism that made the series a worldwide success. Season 4 premieres on August 5, with new episodes arriving weekly through October 7. After spending time back in the United States, Ted returns to England for what Apple describes as his biggest challenge yet, taking charge of a new project that changes the focus of the series. Rather than continuing with the familiar men’s setup, the story now revolves around AFC Richmond’s newly formed women’s soccer team, marking a significant shift for the franchise. The decision follows the ending of Season 3, when the idea of launching a women’s side was first introduced. Feels good to be back.#TedLasso returns August 5. pic.twitter.com/6bUpL1OQLT— Apple TV (@AppleTV) July 28, 2026 Apple’s official synopsis explains that Ted will be “taking on his biggest challenge yet: coaching a second division women’s football team.” The synopsis adds that the coach and his players will learn to take risks throughout the season as they embrace an entirely new journey. The familiar faces staying at the heart of the story Although the series is entering new territory, several of the show’s biggest stars are returning to guide Richmond into its next chapter. Jason Sudeikis reprises his role as Ted Lasso, once again leading the series as the endlessly optimistic American coach. Joining him are Hannah Waddingham as Rebecca Welton, Brett Goldstein as Roy Kent, Brendan Hunt as Coach Beard, Juno Temple as Keeley Jones and Jeremy Swift as Leslie Higgins. ActorCharacterJason SudeikisTed LassoHannah WaddinghamRebecca WeltonBrett GoldsteinRoy KentJuno TempleKeeley JonesBrendan HuntCoach BeardJeremy SwiftLeslie Higgins The trailer makes it clear that these characters remain central to the story, even as the soccer project changes direction. Their relationships, leadership and personal journeys continue to form the emotional backbone of the series. Brendan Hunt, Tanya Reynolds, Jason Sudeikis, John Ternus, SVP, Apple, Tim Cook, CEO, Apple, Hannah Waddingham, Jeremy Swift and Juno Temple Several Richmond favourites step away One of the biggest surprises surrounding Season 4 is that many of the well-known men’s team players will no longer be regular cast members. Characters including Jamie Tartt, Dani Rojas and Sam Obisanya are expected to play little or no role in the new season as the focus shifts toward Richmond’s women’s side. While cameo appearances remain possible, reports suggest they will no longer drive the main storyline. Sudeikis explained why conversations with departing cast members were especially difficult. “Because I didn’t want them to hear it on the internet,” he told The Hollywood Reporter. “And because I love those guys and we all went through something together.” Kola Bokinni, Billy Harris, Cristo Fernández, Jason Sudeikis, Hannah Waddingham, James Lance, Nick Mohammed and Brendan Hunt Nick Mohammed’s Nate Shelley is also expected to appear in a reduced capacity rather than as a full-time regular. Cristo Fernandez, whose energetic Dani Rojas became one of the show’s most beloved personalities, is also expected to sit out the new season. The trailer even includes a touching cal