Wrexham AFC is on the brink of making history as they seek promotion to the Championship, a feat that would mark their third consecutive promotion. The Welsh club, owned by Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, has been a remarkable story since their acquisition in 2021 when they were a non-league team. On Saturday, April 26, 2025, Wrexham took a significant step toward that goal with a crucial 2-0 lead at halftime against Charlton Athletic in their final home game of the season.
Wrexham entered the match knowing they needed a win to secure the second promotion spot in League One, and they were aided by a surprising development elsewhere: their promotion rival, Wycombe Wanderers, suffered a 1-0 defeat against Leyton Orient. This loss meant that Wrexham could clinch promotion with a victory over Charlton.
As the match kicked off, the atmosphere around the Racecourse Ground was electric. Fans filled the stands, and many gathered outside to watch the game on a big screen, creating a vibrant scene reminiscent of a festival. Tom Johnson, a devoted Wrexham supporter, described the atmosphere as "electric," highlighting the palpable excitement as they awaited the outcome of both matches. "If you managed to get here when the goal went in, that was just phenomenal," he said, reflecting the tension and anticipation that filled the air.
Wrexham's first goal came in the 15th minute from Oliver Rathbone, whose long-range shot found the back of the net, sending the home crowd into a frenzy. Just three minutes later, Sam Smith doubled the lead with a well-placed volley, further igniting the celebrations. As the players celebrated, Reynolds joined in the fun by serving drinks at a bar and taking selfies with fans, a gesture that endeared him even more to the supporters.
With Wrexham sitting second in League One with 86 points, the pressure was on them to secure a win. They were closely followed by Wycombe, who had 84 points and needed a victory to keep their promotion hopes alive. The stakes were high, and the tension was palpable as fans kept an eye on the score of the Wycombe match, which would ultimately decide Wrexham's fate.
As the match progressed, the tension continued to mount. Wrexham's defense held strong against Charlton, who were also vying for promotion and were not going to make it easy for the home side. Charlton, sitting just four points behind Wrexham, had their own ambitions and were determined to spoil the party. However, Wrexham's solid performance in the first half set the tone for the match.
The match was not just about the players on the pitch; it was also about the community spirit that has been fostered since Reynolds and McElhenney took over. The Turf pub, located near the stadium, has gained international fame thanks to the docuseries "Welcome to Wrexham," and it erupted in cheers when news of Wycombe's defeat filtered through. Fans celebrated not just for their team but also for the journey they have been on together.
As the second half began, Wrexham was in a strong position, but they needed to maintain their composure. The match against Charlton was a critical juncture in their season, and with Birmingham City already confirmed as League One champions, the focus shifted entirely to the battle for the second promotion spot.
Despite their lead, Wrexham knew they could not afford to take their foot off the gas. The players pushed forward, eager to secure a definitive victory that would solidify their promotion. The tension in the stadium was palpable as fans cheered on their team, hoping for the final whistle to confirm their place in Championship football.
Meanwhile, the implications of Wycombe's loss were not lost on anyone. With Wrexham needing to win and Wycombe failing to claim victory, the path to promotion was clear. However, if Wrexham faltered, they still had a chance to earn promotion through the playoffs, where teams finishing third through sixth in League One compete for the final promotion spot.
As the clock ticked down, Wrexham's players continued to fight for every ball, showcasing their determination and grit. The home crowd rallied behind them, chanting and singing, creating an atmosphere that felt electric. The sense of unity between the players and the fans was evident, as they all shared the same dream of reaching the Championship.
In the end, Wrexham's performance was enough to secure the win they desperately needed. With the final whistle, the stadium erupted in celebration. Fans hugged, cheered, and danced, knowing they had witnessed a historic moment for their club. Wrexham AFC had clinched promotion, becoming the first team in English and Welsh football history to achieve three successive promotions.
As the celebrations continued, the players embraced their achievement, while Reynolds and McElhenney took a moment to soak it all in. The duo's commitment to the club and its community had transformed Wrexham into a team to be reckoned with, and this latest success was a testament to their vision.
Looking ahead, Wrexham will now prepare for their new challenges in the Championship, where they will face tougher competition. However, with the momentum they have built and the unwavering support from their fans, the future looks bright for Wrexham AFC.
As the dust settles on this incredible achievement, Wrexham's supporters can take pride in their club's journey from non-league obscurity to Championship contenders. The story of Wrexham AFC is far from over, and if this season is any indication, there are many more exciting chapters yet to be written.
