Wrexham has done it again! The Welsh football club, owned by Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, celebrated a historic milestone on Saturday, April 26, 2025, by securing their third consecutive promotion after a resounding 3-0 victory over Charlton Athletic at the Racecourse Ground. This triumph sees Wrexham ascend to the EFL Championship, the second tier of English football, for the first time since the 1981-82 season, marking a remarkable rise from the fifth tier in just three seasons.
The atmosphere was electric as nearly 13,000 fans filled the historic stadium, ready to witness their team make history. Wrexham's journey from obscurity to the brink of the Premier League has captivated audiences worldwide, especially through the award-winning documentary series "Welcome to Wrexham." The series chronicles the club's transformation since Reynolds and McElhenney took ownership in 2021, and the latest promotion is a testament to their ambitious vision.
Wrexham's latest victory was highlighted by a stellar performance from Sam Smith, who netted two goals, while Oliver Rathbone opened the scoring with a stunning long-range effort in the 15th minute. Smith quickly followed up with a volley just three minutes later, putting Wrexham firmly in control. He capped off the scoring with another goal in the 81st minute, solidifying the team's position in the Championship.
Reflecting on the achievement, Reynolds shared his thoughts with the media, stating, "It just seemed like an impossible dream. We said five years ago our goal was to make it to the Premier League. There were understandably a lot of laughs, but it feels like a thing that could make it to fruition right now." His sentiments echoed the excitement felt by the fans, who erupted into celebration as the final whistle blew.
Manager Phil Parkinson praised the efforts of his team, highlighting the importance of their supportive fanbase. "This is for those supporters who followed the team in those 15 years in the (non-league) National League in really, really tough times, but stood strong behind their club and they deserve tonight," he said. The manager also acknowledged the need for the club to adapt to the challenges of the Championship, stating, "The owners have come in and done an amazing job. They’re invested in all the decisions, but they trust us in our decision-making and that’s why we’ve had success over the last three years."
Wrexham's promotion comes on the heels of Birmingham City, co-owned by NFL legend Tom Brady, who claimed the League One title. The Red Dragons will face a host of former Premier League teams in the Championship next season, including West Bromwich Albion, Sheffield Wednesday, and Portsmouth, as well as fellow Welsh side Swansea City. The financial implications of this promotion are significant, with increased broadcasting and sponsorship revenue expected to bolster the club's resources.
However, the transition to the Championship will not be without its challenges. The gap in quality between League One and the Championship is substantial, and Wrexham will need to invest in new talent to compete effectively. The club's management is already aware of the demands that lie ahead, with a need to secure better players and increase wages to maintain their competitive edge.
The celebrations on Saturday were not just about the victory; they were a culmination of years of hard work and dedication from players, staff, and fans alike. As the final whistle blew, flares were lit, red smoke filled the air, and Welsh flags were waved proudly in a display of unbridled joy. The fans charged onto the pitch, celebrating the momentous occasion, while Reynolds and McElhenney joined in the festivities, soaking in the atmosphere.
As Wrexham prepares for its new chapter in the Championship, the excitement is palpable. The club has transformed from a struggling team in the National League to a household name, drawing attention from around the globe. The journey has been nothing short of remarkable, and with the support of their passionate fanbase, the future looks bright for Wrexham.
Looking ahead, the club's ambitions remain high. With the dream of reaching the Premier League now closer than ever, Wrexham is poised to make a significant impact in English football. The upcoming season will not only test their mettle on the pitch but also serve as a platform to further enhance their brand and expand their global reach.
In conclusion, Wrexham's ascent to the Championship is a story of perseverance, ambition, and the power of community. As they prepare to take on new challenges, fans can expect an exciting season ahead, filled with hope and determination. With Reynolds and McElhenney at the helm, the Red Dragons are ready to soar to new heights.
