Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenny celebrated Wrexham AFC’s victory and promotion to League One, shedding tears of joy over the team’s success in a football match in North Wales. The co-owners purchased the club for $2.5 million in 2021 with a vision to revitalize the franchise after several relegations, and this latest promotion puts them in the third tier of English football teams. The emotional victory marked the team’s first back-to-back promotion in 159 years, showcasing their remarkable journey from a little-known club to a League One team.
In April 2023, Wrexham achieved their first promotion in 15 years after defeating Boreham Wood, leading to an ecstatic reaction from Reynolds and McElhenny as fans stormed the field in celebration. The co-owners were overwhelmed by the moment, with Reynolds mentioning that it was a culmination of two years of dedication and passion. Despite both feeling like they had blacked out during the crucial moment, they were filled with an indescribable joy that they will never forget, highlighting the emotional impact of the team’s success on both owners.
Reynolds referred to their journey with Wrexham as reminiscent of a “Field of Dreams” experience, drawing parallels to the iconic 1989 baseball movie and the magical feeling of achieving long-awaited dreams. The co-owners have been deeply invested in the team’s progress and have experienced sleepless nights leading up to key matches, reflecting their commitment and emotional attachment to Wrexham’s success. The promotion to League One was a testament to the team’s resilience and determination, solidifying their position as a rising force in English football.
The FX docuseries, Welcome to Wrexham, chronicles the remarkable journey of Wrexham AFC, providing a behind-the-scenes look at the team’s transformation under the ownership of Reynolds and McElhenny. The show has garnered attention and driven local tourism to Wales, showcasing the impact of football as a unifier and community builder. Reynolds and McElhenny were honored with the Freedom of the Borough Award from the Wrexham council, acknowledging their contribution to the local community and their ability to connect people from around the world through their shared passion for the sport.
Overall, Wrexham AFC’s success under the ownership of Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenny is a testament to their dedication and vision for the club’s future. The emotional highs and lows of the team’s journey from the fifth tier to League One have been captured in the docuseries, highlighting the impact of their achievements on the local community and fans worldwide. The back-to-back promotions and historic victories have solidified Wrexham’s position as a rising star in English football, setting the stage for even greater success in the future.
