‘Little Hollywood’ Rises: Wrexham AFC’s Stunning Third Promotion in a Row
What once looked like a football fairytale now feels like a blockbuster. Wrexham AFC have secured a stunning third straight promotion, climbing into the Championship with style. Backed by American Hollywood star Ryan Reynolds and an English smalltown grit, ‘Little Hollywood’ continues to rise.
A Historic Rise Through the Leagues
Wrexham’s ascent began in 2022, breaking a 15-year absence from the English Football League. Under manager Phil Parkinson, the team clinched the National League title, followed by successive promotions from League Two and League One. Their latest 3-0 victory over Charlton Athletic secured their place in the Championship, marking the first time since 1982 that Wrexham reached the second tier. The club’s home, the Racecourse Ground, one of the world’s oldest international stadiums, has been the backdrop for this meteoric rise. Despite its modest capacity of 12.600 seats, the stadium has witnessed record-breaking attendances and a surge in global fan interest, largely fueled by the popular docuseries “Welcome to Wrexham”. The team’s success has not only revitalized the club but also brought economic and cultural rejuvenation to the town of Wrexham.
If you’re interested in small clubs playing in high-level divisions, check out this story about the smallest-capacity stadiums in Europe’s top leagues.
The Power of Celebrity Ownership
Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney bought Wrexham AFC in 2020 for £2 million, and many fans didn’t know what to expect. But from day one, they showed up — making smart decisions, connecting with the local community, and turning their fame into fuel for the club’s growth. They didn’t just fund the project; they lived it. Their docuseries “Welcome to Wrexham” turned the club into a global story, filled with heart, humor, and ambition. David Beckham followed a similar path when he built Inter Miami in MLS, using his influence to attract world-class stars like Lionel Messi and shape a strong brand identity. These owners don’t just pose for photos — they change the direction of entire clubs. By combining business sense, media savvy, and genuine passion, they’ve proven that the right people in the right places can move mountains in modern football.
Want to know more about this unique mix of cinema and football? Then check out this story about two Wrexham football players being part of a Marvel movie.
