Wrexham AFC has made history by securing promotion to the EFL Championship for the third consecutive season, a feat unprecedented in the history of English football. The North Wales-based club, owned by Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, clinched their third promotion in as many years after a resounding 3-0 victory over Charlton Athletic at the Racecourse Ground on Saturday, April 26, 2025.
The match was pivotal for Wrexham, who were second in the table and riding an impressive eight-game unbeaten streak leading into the game. Earlier in the day, Wycombe Wanderers, who were chasing Wrexham for the second automatic promotion spot, suffered a 1-0 defeat to Leyton Orient, paving the way for Wrexham to seal their place in the Championship.
Wrexham's journey from the National League to the second tier of English football in just three seasons is nothing short of remarkable. The club's last appearance in the Championship was during the 1981-82 season, marking a 43-year absence from this level of competition. With this latest promotion, Wrexham has become the first club to achieve three consecutive promotions across the top five tiers of English soccer.
The match against Charlton showcased Wrexham's attacking prowess. Oliver Rathbone opened the scoring with a stunning long-range strike in the 15th minute. Just three minutes later, Sam Smith doubled the lead with a brilliant volley. Smith then capped off the scoring with a header in the 81st minute, ensuring a comfortable 3-0 win for the Red Dragons.
After the final whistle, Reynolds and McElhenney were seen celebrating passionately with fans as they poured onto the pitch to join the players in the celebrations. McElhenney, speaking to Sky Sports after the game, expressed gratitude towards those behind the scenes who contributed to the club's success, stating, "so many that don't get the credit they deserve, people who aren't talked about." Reynolds echoed these sentiments, reflecting on the club's transformation since their takeover in 2020, saying, "bringing success back to the club seemed like an impossible dream when we arrived in North Wales in 2020." He credited the coaching staff and the team's unity for their achievements, adding, "I’m speechless with their commitment and their emotion."
Veteran striker Steven Fletcher, who joined Wrexham to bolster their squad, emphasized the club's special atmosphere from the moment he arrived. "As soon as I came to this club, I knew it was something special. We want to go again. We'll reset in the summer, take a break and go again," he said.
Wrexham's rise under Reynolds and McElhenney has not only been a sporting success but also a financial one. When the pair purchased the club in 2020, they promised to invest at least £2 million into its infrastructure. Since then, the club has experienced a remarkable increase in revenue. Prior to their arrival, Wrexham generated between $2 million to $4 million annually. However, in the 2023-24 season, Wrexham's revenue soared to £27 million ($36 million), a significant leap that reflects their newfound status and popularity.
The club's financials are now competitive within the Championship, where revenues ranged from £16.6 million to £127.6 million, with a median of £29.5 million in the 2023-24 season. This financial stability, combined with their on-field success, positions Wrexham favorably as they prepare for the challenges of the Championship.
Head coach Phil Parkinson has played a crucial role in this success, achieving his sixth promotion as a manager. His previous promotions include stints with Colchester United, Bradford City, and Bolton Wanderers. Parkinson's leadership has been pivotal in navigating the club through its rapid rise.
As the celebrations continue, the focus now shifts to the future. Both Reynolds and McElhenney are aware of the challenges that await in the Championship but remain optimistic. They have expressed their excitement for what lies ahead, acknowledging that while the current moment is one for celebration, the hard work is far from over.
As Wrexham gears up for the 2025-26 season in the EFL Championship, the club's supporters are buzzing with anticipation. The prospect of competing at a higher level brings with it new challenges and opportunities, and fans are eager to see how their beloved team will fare against tougher competition.
With a history steeped in tradition and a future that looks bright under the stewardship of Reynolds and McElhenney, Wrexham AFC is not just a football club; it has become a symbol of hope and ambition in the world of sports. The fairy-tale journey continues, and the Red Dragons are ready to take flight in the Championship.
