Ryan Reynolds is a minority owner of Wrexham Association Football Club (Wrexham AFC), the Welsh professional club he and actor Rob McElhenney purchased in 2020. Their involvement, documented in the series Welcome to Wrexham, centers around supporting the club’s ambitious rebuild while respecting its community roots. This article provides a verified overview of Reynolds’ role, the context of the acquisition, and the ongoing structure of Wrexham AFC.
Background of Wrexham AFC
Wrexham AFC is a professional football club based in Wrexham, Wales, competing in the English football league system. Founded in 1864, it is one of the oldest clubs in the world. Before Reynolds and McElhenney’s involvement, the club faced financial challenges and was majority-owned by supporters through its ‘Wrexham Supporters Trust.’
Acquisition and Ownership Structure
In November 2020, Reynolds and McElhenney, through their production firm Mint Imperials, completed the purchase of Wrexham AFC. The deal involved a takeover of the majority shares from the Supporters Trust, while minority stakes and commercial rights retained community links. The club is operated as a limited company, with Reynolds listed among the owners but not holding a day-to-day operational role.
Ownership stakes overview
| Owner / Entity | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Ryan Reynolds | Minority owner; part of the consortium led with Rob McElhenney | Club statement / SEC filings |
| Rob McElhenney | Co-owner and chairman; primary operator | Club statement / SEC filings |
| Wrexham Supporters Trust | Retained minority stake and legacy influence | Trust announcement |
| Club valuation at purchase | Approximately £2 million (around $2.6M–$3M USD) | Media reports citing sources |
Their Role and Public Presence
Reynolds and McElhenney’s ownership is primarily seen as supportive and promotional. They have invested in infrastructure, helped raise the club’s global profile, and starred in the FX documentary series Welcome to Wrexham. Reynolds has described their involvement as advocacy rather than hands-on management, emphasizing the club’s community importance.
Community and Legacy Impact
While the takeover shifted majority control, the arrangement was structured to preserve the influence of the Supporters Trust and local identity. The club has pursued projects such as a new stadium, and both owners have pledged to reinvest revenue back into the team and community initiatives. The arrangement remains distinct for balancing celebrity visibility with supporter heritage.
Comparison to Celebrity-Owned Clubs
Unlike sole-owner celebrity projects, Reynolds’ stake in Wrexham is minority within a small consortium. This contrasts with clubs fully owned by individuals (e.g., John Textor at Crystal Palace via large investment, or Shahid Khan at Fulham and Leeds). Reynolds’ role is best understood as high-profile partial ownership rather than controlling proprietorship.
Current Status and Future Outlook
As of the latest public disclosures, Reynolds remains a named owner in the consortium, with day-to-day decisions handled by McElhenney and professional staff. The club continues to compete in League Two and above, with stated ambitions for sustainable growth. No sale or change in ownership structure has been announced.