Estimated reading time: 4 minutes
Key Takeaways
- Ryan Reynolds, Hollywood actor and co-owner of Wrexham AFC, is transforming the club’s international profile and infrastructure in 2025.
- Significant stadium expansion plans aim to increase capacity to up to 55,000 fans, supporting Wales’ bid to host the 2035 Women’s World Cup.
- Reynolds’ involvement has elevated Wrexham’s global visibility, attracting international partnerships and inspiring community development.
- The club’s historic consecutive promotions highlight a successful sporting strategy under Reynolds and McElhenney’s ownership.
- While rumors about Reynolds playing football persist, insiders confirm his role remains primarily as a visionary owner and ambassador.
Table of Contents
From Hollywood to the Heart of Welsh Football
Ambitions Beyond the Pitch: Stadium Expansion and Global Events
Ryan Reynolds on the Field? Not Exactly
From Hollywood to the Heart of Welsh Football
Since purchasing Wrexham AFC in 2021 through their joint company, RR McReynolds Company LLC, Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney have led the club to historic heights, including becoming the first team in English football’s top five divisions to achieve three consecutive promotions[1]. This remarkable turnaround has elevated the club’s status significantly and marked a new era of success.
Ambitions Beyond the Pitch: Stadium Expansion and Global Events
In 2025, Reynolds and McElhenney are driving a major redevelopment of Wrexham’s home stadium, the Stok Cae Ras (Racecourse Ground). Their plans include constructing a new Kop stand that could increase capacity to approximately 18,000, with long-term visions to host between 45,000 and 55,000 fans[2][3].
These upgrades support the Football Association of Wales’ bid to host the 2035 Women’s World Cup. Wrexham’s stadium has been designated as a key northern venue alongside Cardiff City Stadium, aiming to bring international football to North Wales[2][3]. FAW CEO Noel Mooney has praised the club owners for their forward-thinking approach, emphasizing the connection between club development and national football growth.
Ryan Reynolds on the Field? Not Exactly
Speculation surrounding Ryan Reynolds playing for Wrexham has circulated, partly due to his charismatic presence and involvement. However, insiders like The Wrexham Insider confirm that Reynolds holds no actual football decision-making authority or plans to join the squad. His role remains primarily that of a visionary owner and ambassador.
Cultural and Financial Impact
Reynolds’ involvement has amplified Wrexham’s international profile, attracting new partnerships and increasing global interest[2][5]. The club’s growth has also positively affected the local economy, youth talent development, and Welsh football’s prestige[2][5]. The blending of celebrity influence with sports management is proving a powerful catalyst for sustainable success and community upliftment.
FAQ
Will Ryan Reynolds play for Wrexham?
No, Reynolds is deeply involved as a visionary owner and ambassador. Insiders confirm he has no plans to join the playing squad, despite fan rumors about his involvement.
What are the stadium expansion plans?
The plans include building a new Kop stand to increase capacity to approximately 18,000 fans, with long-term goals for a stadium holding between 45,000 and 55,000 spectators[2][3].
How has Reynolds impacted Wrexham?
His investment and profile have boosted the club’s global visibility, attracted international partnerships, and inspired community and economic growth in Wrexham and beyond[2][5].