Wrexham AFC, the third oldest professional football club in the world, has captured global attention thanks to its famous owners. Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney purchased Wrexham AFC in February 2021 through their company Wrexham Holdings LLC.
The Welsh club has experienced a remarkable transformation under their ownership, climbing from the National League back into the English Football League system.
The celebrity owners have brought more than just their star power to the historic Racecourse Ground. They’ve invested significantly in the club, the stadium, and the local community.
Recently, they sold a minority stake to the Allyn family from New York while maintaining their controlling interest in the Welsh club.
Their ownership story has resonated with football fans worldwide, especially through the popular “Welcome to Wrexham” documentary series.
The club now competes in EFL League One, continuing its climb up the English football pyramid with dreams of reaching the Premier League someday.
Key Takeaways
- Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney own Wrexham AFC through Wrexham Holdings LLC, with the Allyn family as minority investors.
- Founded in 1864, Wrexham is one of the oldest football clubs in the world and plays its home matches at the historic Racecourse Ground.
- The Hollywood ownership has transformed the club both on and off the pitch, with consecutive promotions and growing international recognition.
Ownership of Wrexham AFC
Wrexham AFC is currently owned by Wrexham Holdings LLC, which consists of Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney. The duo took control of the Welsh club in February 2021, purchasing it from the Wrexham Supporters Trust.
Reynolds, famous for his role in “Deadpool,” and McElhenney, creator of “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia,” have brought significant attention to the club through their celebrity status and genuine enthusiasm for football.
Their ownership has been transformative for Wrexham. The pair have helped the club rise from the National League (fifth tier) to EFL League One (third tier), bringing renewed hope and excitement to fans.
The owners have also created the hit documentary series “Welcome to Wrexham,” which chronicles their journey with the club and has introduced Wrexham to a global audience.
In recent developments, Reynolds and McElhenney have welcomed new minority investors. The New York-based Allyn family has joined as minority stakeholders, adding to the club’s financial stability.
The Hollywood owners have also expanded their Welsh business interests by acquiring a local brewery while selling a minority stake in the football club.
Their investment has gone beyond just the team, with significant improvements to the historic Racecourse Ground and various community initiatives.
Historical Background
Wrexham Association Football Club stands as a cornerstone of Welsh football heritage with a fascinating journey through the decades. The club’s rich history spans from its Victorian-era beginnings to its recent time competing in England’s National League system.
Wrexham’s Early Years
Founded in 1864, Wrexham AFC proudly holds the title of Wales’ oldest professional Football Club and the third oldest in the world. The club began when cricket enthusiasts in Wrexham needed a sport to play during winter months.
The team has called the Racecourse Ground its home throughout most of its history. This venue actually holds the record as the world’s oldest international football stadium still in use.
Throughout its early decades, Wrexham established itself as a significant presence in Welsh football, collecting numerous Welsh Cup titles and gradually building its reputation.
Wrexham in National League
Wrexham’s journey took a challenging turn when the club fell into the fifth-tier National League in 2008. This period marked significant struggles for the historic club.
Financial difficulties threatened Wrexham’s existence, with the team experiencing numerous ownership changes and uncertainty about its future. Fans rallied around their beloved club during these difficult years.
The team came close to promotion several times but faced heartbreaking playoff defeats. These challenging years in the National League represented one of the toughest periods in the club’s long history, testing the loyalty of its dedicated fanbase.
Recent Developments
Wrexham AFC has seen remarkable growth since Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney bought the club in 2021. The club’s value has skyrocketed as the Hollywood owners implement their ambitious vision.
Promotion Efforts
The club has been focused on climbing up the English Football League ladder. After years in non-league football, Wrexham achieved promotion and continues to set its sights higher. The team’s CEO Michael Williamson has shared major updates on promotion plans as they work toward reaching higher divisions.
The owners have invested significantly in player recruitment. In a bold move, Wrexham has signed former Premier League stars who have even shared the field with Cristiano Ronaldo. This strategy demonstrates their serious commitment to competitive success.
With each promotion, the club increases its revenue through larger attendance, more lucrative sponsorship deals, and higher television payments.
Hollywood Influence
Reynolds and McElhenney have brought star power to the small Welsh club. Their involvement extends beyond ownership – they recently became co-owners of Wrexham Lager, further strengthening their connection to the local community.
The “Welcome to Wrexham” documentary series has given the club global visibility that would have been unimaginable before their takeover. This exposure has attracted new fans worldwide and created marketing opportunities.
The Hollywood connection has also helped attract corporate partners and sponsors. Under their guidance, the club’s value has increased dramatically – now estimated at £100 million, representing a stunning 4,900% increase from the approximately £2 million they paid in 2021.
Fan Community and Culture
Wrexham AFC’s supporters form the backbone of this historic club. The passionate fanbase has remained loyal through decades of ups and downs, creating a unique culture that caught the attention of current owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney.
Matchday Experience
The matchday experience at The Racecourse Ground is electric and filled with tradition. Fans gather hours before kickoff to share stories and build excitement for the match ahead.
The stadium, which is the world’s oldest international football ground still in use, provides a historic backdrop for the passionate support. Red scarves, jerseys, and flags create a sea of color throughout the stands.
Chants and songs echo around the ground, many dating back generations. The “Wrexham till I die” chant shows the deep connection fans feel to their club.
Local food vendors and pubs near the stadium are packed on matchdays, creating a festive community atmosphere that extends beyond the ground itself.
Supporter Engagement
Since the Hollywood takeover, fan engagement has reached new heights. The club that was under fan ownership from 2011 until the takeover has maintained strong connections with supporters.
Social media interaction has exploded, with fans from across the globe joining the Wrexham family. The club regularly hosts meet-and-greets, community events, and fan forums.
Merchandise sales have soared with new fans eager to show their support. Red jerseys now appear in countries where Wrexham was previously unknown, creating a global community.
The “Welcome to Wrexham” documentary series has given fans unprecedented access to the inner workings of the club. This transparency has strengthened the bond between supporters and their beloved team.
Local community projects continue to thrive with both fan and club involvement, maintaining the grassroots connection that makes Wrexham special.
Media and Entertainment Impact
The ownership of Wrexham AFC by Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney has transformed the club into a global entertainment phenomenon. Their Hollywood connections have created unprecedented media exposure for the historic Welsh club.
‘Welcome to Wrexham’ Documentary
The hit documentary series “Welcome to Wrexham” has become a centerpiece of the owners’ media strategy. The show follows the journey of Reynolds and McElhenney as they navigate the challenges of running a football club.
The documentary has been wildly successful, generating over $3.2 million in revenue. It airs on FX and streams on Disney+, bringing Wrexham’s story to millions of viewers worldwide.
Fans have connected with the authentic storytelling that showcases both the club’s struggles and triumphs. The show has won several awards and helped turn casual viewers into devoted Wrexham supporters.
The documentary also highlights the town itself, bringing attention to local businesses and the community’s deep connection to the club.
Publicity and Branding
Reynolds and McElhenney have leveraged their celebrity status to give Wrexham unprecedented publicity. Their social media presence has been crucial in building the club’s global brand.
The owners regularly post updates about the team to their millions of followers. This visibility has attracted new sponsors and partnership deals that would be unthinkable for most League One clubs.
TikTok became the team’s shirt sponsor, while Aviation Gin (partly owned by Reynolds) and other brands have formed partnerships with the club. These deals have helped strengthen Wrexham’s financial position.
The club’s merchandise sales have skyrocketed globally, with fans from the US, Canada, and beyond purchasing Wrexham gear.
The red and white colors of Wrexham are now recognized by football fans who had never heard of the club before 2021.
Club Operations and Financial Insights
Wrexham AFC’s operational structure and finances have transformed dramatically since the Hollywood takeover. The club now balances commercial success with community values while developing multiple revenue sources.
Revenue Streams
Wrexham AFC has seen its income sources expand significantly under Reynolds and McElhenney’s ownership.
The club’s TV show “Welcome to Wrexham” has been incredibly lucrative, generating over $3.2 million in revenue.
Merchandise sales have skyrocketed with global fans eager to purchase official Wrexham gear.
The club’s distinctive red jerseys and branded items have become popular far beyond Wales.
Match day income has also increased thanks to higher attendance figures at the Racecourse Ground. Home games now regularly sell out, bringing in substantial ticket revenue.
Sponsorship deals have grown in both number and value. The club’s higher profile has attracted bigger brands willing to pay premium rates for association with the Hollywood-owned team.
Club Management
The club was previously run by the Wrexham Community Trust from 2011 following financial difficulties. This fan ownership model maintained the club until the 2021 takeover.
The new owners purchased Wrexham for $2.5 million while it was still in the fifth tier of English football. They’ve since invested heavily in both playing staff and infrastructure.
Day-to-day operations are handled by a professional management team. The owners maintain regular involvement despite their Hollywood commitments, participating in key decisions and promotional activities.
The club’s financial situation shows both investment and debt. Recent reports indicate the club owes significant sums to Reynolds, highlighting the ongoing need for capital as they climb through the league system.
Wrexham’s Contribution to the Community
Wrexham AFC has become much more than just a football club – it’s a vital part of the local community. The club’s new celebrity owners have helped shine a spotlight on the positive impact Wrexham has on its hometown.
The club offers so much more than celebrity ownership, creating an underdog story that resonates with locals and visitors alike. This connection has strengthened bonds between the team and its supporters.
Even before their takeover was complete, Reynolds and McElhenney invested money into Wrexham. Their contributions to the transfer fund helped strengthen the squad and showed their commitment to on-field success.
Beyond football, Wrexham AFC has transformed the local economy. The city has seen a rise in tourism and investment since the Hollywood owners arrived, bringing new visitors to this former market and mining town.
The club’s former training ground found new purpose when the Football Association of Wales invested about £4 million to transform it into a National facility. This provides lasting infrastructure for the community.
Key Achievements and Challenges
Since taking ownership of Wrexham AFC in February 2021, Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney have overseen remarkable changes both on and off the pitch. Their leadership has transformed the club’s fortunes through strategic investments and community engagement.
League Performances
Wrexham’s recent league journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. The club achieved promotion from the National League to the English Football League in 2023, ending a 15-year absence from professional football. This promotion marked a significant turning point in the club’s history.
The team continued their upward trajectory by securing promotion to League One in the 2023-24 season. This back-to-back promotion showed the positive impact of the new ownership’s investment and vision.
Before Reynolds and McElhenney arrived, Wrexham had struggled in the National League for over a decade. The club now aims to continue climbing the English football pyramid, with some fans dreaming of eventually reaching the Premier League.
The owners have been clear about their long-term ambitions, investing in player recruitment and facilities to build sustainable success rather than quick fixes.
Famous Matches and Rivalries
Wrexham has participated in several memorable matches under the new ownership. Their FA Cup run in 2023 captured attention nationwide, with exciting games against Championship opposition showcasing their potential on a bigger stage.
The club’s rivalry with Notts County became especially intense during their National League promotion battle, with both matches that season proving crucial to their eventual success.
A new interesting dynamic has emerged in what some have dubbed the “Hollywood Derby” – matches against Salford City, owned by former Manchester United players. These games pit celebrity owners against each other in an unusual football rivalry.
The team’s matches are now regularly sold out, with fans from around the world traveling to the Racecourse Ground. This international attention has brought a new dimension to traditional local rivalries with Welsh clubs and nearby English teams.
The documentary series Welcome to Wrexham has helped showcase these exciting matches to a global audience, further raising the profile of these games.
Future Outlook
Wrexham AFC’s journey under Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney continues to evolve with ambitious plans for the club’s growth. The owners face important decisions in 2025 that will shape Wrexham’s trajectory in English football.
Strategic Goals
Reynolds and McElhenney have clear aims for Wrexham beyond just winning matches. They’re focused on sustainable growth while building the club’s profile globally. The duo will have to make difficult decisions this year that could impact the club’s future direction.
Financial considerations remain important as the owners have already invested substantially. Their initial $2.5 million purchase has been followed by significant additional investment to strengthen the squad and improve facilities.
The recent addition of the New York-based Allyn family as minority investors shows the owners are open to bringing in strategic partners. This move could provide additional resources for the club’s ambitious plans.
Prospects in English Football
Wrexham’s remarkable rise through the divisions has many fans dreaming of Premier League football. Currently competing in League One, the club has maintained momentum from their previous promotions.
The path to the Premier League will likely cost a significant amount of money, requiring continued investment in players, staff, and infrastructure. The Championship represents the next challenge if they achieve promotion from League One.
Many experts believe Wrexham’s unusual ownership structure and global popularity give them advantages over traditional lower-league clubs. The commercial success of the “Welcome to Wrexham” documentary has created revenue streams most clubs at this level don’t enjoy.
Despite the optimism, the owners recognize the challenge of reaching the top flight against established football powerhouses. They remain committed to the long-term project rather than seeking quick fixes.
Wrexham and Pop Culture
The ownership of Wrexham AFC by Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney has catapulted the Welsh club into pop culture prominence. Their celebrity status has created new opportunities for the club to expand its reach beyond football.
Wrex Coast Tour
The Wrex Coast Tour became a highlight for fans when Wrexham AFC visited the United States in summer 2023. This pre-season tour gave American supporters a chance to see their favorite Welsh team in person for the first time.
The team played against several notable opponents including Chelsea FC, drawing significant crowds. Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney actively promoted these matches through their social media channels.
Players received a Hollywood-style welcome at each stop, highlighting the unique connection between Wales and America that the club now represents.
The tour helped strengthen Wrexham’s growing fanbase in North America, with thousands of new supporters discovering the team through these exhibition matches.
Brand Expansions and Merchandise
Wrexham’s popularity explosion has led to impressive merchandise sales worldwide. The club shop regularly sells out of replica kits and memorabilia. International shipping has become a significant revenue stream.
The Welcome to Wrexham documentary series on FX/Disney+ has served as a powerful marketing tool. It introduced the club to millions of viewers globally.
Limited edition collaborations have included:
- Aviation Gin (Reynolds’ company) branded Wrexham items
- Special edition jerseys featuring TikTok and other sponsors
- Collectible merchandise featuring both the club crest and Hollywood branding
The club has developed strategic partnerships with major retailers to ensure fans worldwide can easily purchase official merchandise. This global approach to retail has transformed Wrexham from a local Welsh club into an international brand with significant commercial appeal.
