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Wrexham AFC: The Hollywood Revival of Wales’ Oldest Football Club

Wrexham AFC, the oldest football club in Wales and the third-oldest professional association football team in the world, has recently seen a meteoric rise in global popularity, thanks largely to the high-profile ownership of Hollywood actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney. Formed in 1864, this historic Welsh club has experienced both the highs and lows of competitive football, and its recent revival is a story of hope, transformation, and community spirit.

A Historic Legacy

Founded over 160 years ago, Wrexham AFC holds a special place in Welsh football history. They became the first Welsh team to join the English football league system and developed a legacy of passionate play and community involvement. Despite a successful past, including memorable FA Cup and European performances, the club had struggled in recent decades, languishing in the lower tiers of English football. For years, fans watched their beloved team compete in the National League, the fifth tier of English football. But all that began to change in 2020 with the unexpected news of a Hollywood takeover.

The Hollywood Takeover: “Bringing Wrexham Back”

In November 2020, Canadian actor Ryan Reynolds and American actor and producer Rob McElhenney officially purchased Wrexham AFC for around $2.5 million. Their aim was clear: to invest in the club’s success on and off the pitch. Reynolds and McElhenney also brought a fresh sense of purpose to the club, aiming to connect with Wrexham’s local identity and Welsh heritage.

“We didn’t just want to own a football team; we wanted to be part of the community,” McElhenney said in a recent interview. “Wrexham’s history and passionate fanbase are what drew us in, and we’re here to help elevate the club in every way we can.”

Since taking the reins, the pair have committed millions toward player acquisitions, stadium upgrades, and infrastructure improvements. Their investments have breathed new life into the club, with a focus on returning Wrexham to the English Football League (EFL). That dream came true in the 2022–2023 season when Wrexham earned promotion to League Two, bringing them to the fourth tier of the English football pyramid and signaling a new era of competitive success.

A Community Transformed

Under new ownership, Wrexham AFC has become more than just a football club; it has evolved into a cultural hub for the community. With the creation of the popular docuseries Welcome to Wrexham, the club’s story has reached global audiences, bringing attention to the town’s rich heritage, local businesses, and community spirit.

Local fan Eifion Jones expressed how this has changed life in Wrexham: “This club has always been the heart of the community, but now it’s also a window to the world. It’s incredible seeing people from all over coming here just to be part of it.”

The Hollywood owners have made efforts to immerse themselves in Welsh culture, learning Welsh phrases and promoting the language, which earned them the prestigious Dragon Award for “promoting Wales and the Welsh language to the world.” Their dedication has not only reignited passion among the local fanbase but also drawn thousands of new fans globally.

Fans Embrace the “Wrexham Effect”

Wrexham fans, both new and old, have rallied around the club with a renewed sense of pride. The fanbase has become increasingly diverse, attracting people from around the world who now see Wrexham AFC as their second team. As one fan put it, “Ryan and Rob have shown that Wrexham isn’t just a place on the map – it’s a club with a soul. Seeing them chant with us, celebrate with us – that’s what makes it special.”

The club’s supporters have reciprocated the owners’ dedication, with an overwhelming show of support during matches, fan events, and online communities. One Wrexham local, Gwen Davies, noted, “We’ve always supported the team, through thick and thin, but now there’s a whole new level of excitement. It feels like we’re all part of something much bigger.”

Building a Strong Future

Looking ahead, Reynolds and McElhenney have ambitious plans for Wrexham AFC, with a long-term vision that includes further stadium improvements, player development, and community outreach. Plans to modernize the Racecourse Ground, one of the oldest stadiums still in use, are underway, aiming to increase seating capacity and enhance facilities for both fans and players.

“Our hope is not only to bring Wrexham to new heights in the league but also to make the Racecourse Ground a true home for the community,” said Reynolds in a recent statement. “We want it to be a place where people come to celebrate football, Welsh culture, and the town’s identity.”

A Catalyst for Economic Growth

Wrexham’s success story has extended beyond the football pitch, sparking economic growth and revitalization throughout the town. Local businesses report a boost in tourism, with fans traveling from across the globe to experience Wrexham’s unique culture and witness the club’s matches in person. From pubs and hotels to local vendors, the “Wrexham effect” has become a vital economic driver in the area.

“Ryan and Rob have put Wrexham on the map in a way we never imagined,” said Carys Evans, a local café owner. “The number of visitors has doubled since the series aired. It’s been a game-changer for us.”

A Legacy Reborn

Wrexham AFC’s story is one of resilience, community, and passion. Thanks to the commitment of Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, the club has not only secured its future but is thriving in a way that honors its historic roots while embracing new opportunities. What began as a Hollywood investment has blossomed into a community-driven success, uniting fans around the world in support of one of the oldest football clubs in existence.

As Reynolds reflected, “Wrexham isn’t just a football club; it’s a family. And we’re proud to be part of that family.”

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