Since their takeover of Wrexham three years ago, co-owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney have celebrated two successive promotion seasons, propelling the north Wales club into League One. Their impact on the town of Wrexham has been immense, with their ownership leading to a surge in revenue and global attention. The duo’s presence has attracted tourists and sponsorships from large companies such as United Airlines and TikTok, catapulting the club to newfound fame. The Trainline named two trains after Reynolds and McElhenney, showcasing the Hollywood duo’s influence beyond the football field.
Critics have called the Trainline’s gesture towards Reynolds and McElhenney sycophantic, while the company claims it is a tribute to the owners’ positive impact on the club and surrounding community. Wrexham, a former Welsh mining town, has become a major point of interest due to the duo’s involvement and subsequent exposure. The club’s revenue skyrocketed by 75% to over £10 million following their promotion to League One, highlighting the financial success brought by Reynolds and McElhenney. This growth in revenue showcases the “Rob and Ryan effect” on Wrexham, with the club achieving back-to-back promotions for the first time in history.
The club’s recent financial accounts reflect the significant boost in revenue, with retail merchandise accounting for the largest share of income. Wrexham’s success on the field has been mirrored by their off-field achievements, with global interest in the club on the rise. Winning promotions in consecutive seasons has propelled Wrexham into the spotlight, with the boardroom successes of Reynolds and McElhenney equally as important as the team’s performances. The town has seen a surge in tourists and fan engagement, all attributable to the Hollywood duo’s ownership and management style.
The Trainline’s decision to name two trains after Reynolds and McElhenney is just one example of the duo’s widespread influence in Wales and beyond. The Hollywood stars have brought considerable attention to Wrexham, turning the club into a global phenomenon. Their unique approach to football ownership has reinvigorated the team and town, with financial success and fan engagement reaching new levels. Reynolds and McElhenney have defied expectations by achieving back-to-back promotions and elevating Wrexham to the League One tier, promising a bright future for the club and its loyal supporters.
