From Zero to Superheroes! Wrexham: Two League Promotions in Two Years!

When Hollywood actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney took over Wrexham AFC, many—including friends, family, and even TikTok fans—thought they were crazy and bound to lose every penny they invested. But Deadpool himself and Mac from It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia had a vision—and they were 100% sure they’d win this massive bet: bringing the world’s oldest football club back into professional football.

160 years of history—thrown away, until...

Founded in October 1864 by members of the Wrexham Cricket Club, Wrexham AFC is one of the oldest football clubs in the world. Imagine the contrast—while Wrexham was forming football clubs in Britain, Romania was only uniting under Cuza's leadership!

Unimaginable early rules

Their first game, played on October 22, 1864, against the Prince of Wales Fire Brigade, saw teams fielding up to 17 players each. By 1876, Wrexham had its first players selected for the Welsh national team. The club won its first Welsh Cup in 1878, defeating Druids F.C. 1-0. Their second cup win came in 1883, but later that year, their first FA Cup journey ended in disappointment, losing to Oswestry.

In 1921, Wrexham joined the Northern section of the Third Division, a significant achievement. In the 1932-33 season, they won an incredible 18 out of 21 home games. Under John Neal’s leadership between 1968 and 1982, the club reached the Second Division and even the UEFA Cup quarter-finals. But from 1982 onwards, the club struggled, facing relegation and financial instability. By 1991, they hit rock bottom, finishing last in the league.

A Giant-Killing Moment

Despite their struggles, Wrexham produced a historic FA Cup win in the 1991-92 season, defeating reigning champions Arsenal 2-1. By April 27, 1993, they secured promotion with a 2-0 win over Northampton Town. In the 1994-95 FA Cup, they achieved another notable victory, this time over Ipswich Town. In 1995-96, Wrexham even faced Romania's Petrolul Ploiești in Europe—a memorable clash between Welsh miners and Romanian oil workers. Petrolul eventually edged it 1-0 after a goalless draw in Wales.

The 21st Century: Disaster Strikes

By the early 2000s, Wrexham’s problems weren’t just on the field. Former chairman Alex Hamilton attempted to evict the club from its stadium, seeking to sell the land for his personal gain. In the summer of 2004, he gave Wrexham a one-year notice to leave their home. Wrexham fans allied with supporters of Brighton & Hove Albion, who had faced a similar fate. On December 3, 2004, Wrexham was placed into administration by Manchester's High Court, owing £2.6 million, including £800,000 in unpaid taxes. The club was the first in the league to suffer a 10-point deduction under new rules.

From 2008 to 2020, Wrexham endured a difficult journey in non-league football, experiencing both moments of agony and hope. By 2019-20, they hit their lowest point ever, finishing 19th, the worst in the club's history.

Hollywood Money to the Rescue

Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds saw potential where few did. They were inspired by Wrexham’s community spirit and the passion of the fans. It wasn’t just about football—it was about giving back to a town that deserved better. Their investment wasn’t about making a quick return, but about transforming both the club and the community. With the help of Shaun Harvey, their advisor, they began building a plan for success.

The success of the "Welcome to Wrexham" documentary brought international attention, boosting local businesses and drawing tourists from all over the world. But this was no overnight success—it took years of patience and hard work.

Under the guidance of top-tier professionals like manager Phil Parkinson and standout players such as Paul Mullin and Ben Foster, the team’s confidence soared. Sponsorship deals, like the one with TikTok, were just the beginning. With the unwavering support of locals, die-hard fans, and even the less fortunate, Wrexham forged three unforgettable years.

On Saturday, April 13 (a lucky day!), Wrexham secured their second consecutive promotion, crushing Forest Green 6-0.

This is a heartwarming tale of unity, determination, and patience. It’s a story about betting on yourself and sticking with that belief until the very last moment. In Wrexham’s case, that belief has paid off in spectacular fashion.