Wrexham AFC was adrift when Ryan Reynolds and fellow actor Rob McElhenney bought the little-known club for $2.5 million in 2021. Last April, they clinched the National League title to get back into the English Football League — the three divisions below the Premier League — for the first time in 15 years. Now, they have secured another promotion to reach League One -- one step closer to the dream of competing in the English Premier League.
The Hollywood stars have invested heavily in the club through loans — the club's financial reports this week show that they're owed more than $11 million. Reynolds' and McElhenney's adventures as soccer team owners have been chronicled in their show “Welcome to Wrexham.” Here are 10 things to know about Wrexham as they prepare for a new challenge in the coming season:
1. Vintage Football Club
The oldest football club in Wales and the third oldest professional club in the world, Wrexham F.C., was formed in 1864 by the members of Wrexham Cricket Club. Founded 159 years ago, its first match was against a team of firemen, which ended in Wrexham’s defeat.
2. Time-honoured Ground
The STōK Cae Ras, or Racecourse Ground in Wales, is the oldest international stadium that is still in use. With a capacity of 10,500, it is the home stadium of this Welsh club.
3. Successive Ascension
In the 2023–24 season, Wrexham F.C. has seen two back-to-back promotions since 2005. Securing its promotion to EFL League One, the third tier of the English football system puts the club two steps away from the prestigious English Premier League.
4. Luminary ownership
The purchase of Wrexham F.C. by Hollywood stars Ryan Reynold and Rob McElhenney has brought this little-known club to the international spotlight. The worldwide recognition and popularity due to this acquisition have given the club a growing fanbase.
5. Wrex and The Red Dragons
Wrex the Dragon, a red dragon with the jersey number 1864, was first unveiled as the official team mascot in the year the club was formed. Even though red was the club’s official jersey colour from the late 1930s, it took the tag of ‘The Red Dragons’ much later in the 2001–02 season.
6. 'Welcome to Wrexham'
An American sports docuseries ‘Welcome to Wrexham’ was made chronicling the events after the purchase of the club by Reynolds and McElhenney. This series spanned two seasons, captivated both critics and audiences alike with its portrayal of the club, and bagged five Emmys and other accolades.
7. Triumph of the Welsh
With a record 23 wins in the Welsh Cup, Wrexham F.C. has established itself as one of the most dominant and powerful teams in the region. Last won in 1995, this makes the club the most successful in the competition’s history.
8. Wrexham Sports Fuel
American sports food and beverage company Gatorade has announced its official partnership with Wrexham F.C. after its ascension to EFL League One.
9. Wrexham Hall of Fame
The club has featured many world-famous footballers over the years. From former Chelsea defender Frank Sinclair to ex-Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal, Wrexham F.C. has been fortunate to have many eminent players contribute to the team.
10. Successful 70s
The most notable period in the club’s history is the 1970s, as it was the most successful era for Wrexham F.C. The team reached the quarter-finals of the UEFA Cup and won several matches against notable European clubs during this time.