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via Imago

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As the 2023 soccer season has swung into full gear, much of the focus has been on one team in particular – Wrexham AFC. The Welsh-based team found success this year in the National League and earned promotion to the fourth division, a significant accomplishment that had not been achieved since 2008.

Their success has been further bolstered by a major sponsorship deal with American brand STōK Cold Brew. One of the key aspects of the sponsorship, and one that has been met with mixed reactions from fans, is the change of name of the club’s home stadium.

The controversial name change of Wrexham stadium

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The Racecourse Ground, historically known as Cae Ras, has now been renamed STōK Cae Ras | STōK Racecourse. This will take effect from the start of next season and is a historic move in the long history of the stadium. The Wrexham owners, Ryan Reynolds, and Rob McElhenney, recently expressed their satisfaction with the sponsorship deal in a hilarious fashion.

This deal has sparked a debate as to whether this naming change is appropriate or not. The Racecourse Ground has been the home of Wrexham AFC since 1864, making it the oldest stadium in world soccer. This topic of discussion was made even more prevalent when a poll was released on Twitter inviting fans to share their opinion on the name change.

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The majority of the votes came out in favor of the name change. They argued that the extra money from the sponsorship deal was extremely beneficial for the team’s development and could significantly improve the stadium’s future. However, there are also 3.5% of people who want it to be changed back.

Fans share their opinion on the sponsorship deal

A great deal of the discussion on the name change has come from Wrexham fans, who have taken to Twitter to express their thoughts and opinions on the subject. Many are in favor of the move due to its financial gain, citing how money from the sponsorship deal is a much-needed boost for the club and stadium. Wrexham fans pointed out that the name ‘Cae Ras’ or ‘Racecourse’ will remain, preserving its history.

Here are some of the reactions from fans:

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The STōK Cold Brew deal certainly has been the talk of the soccer world as of late. As the club looks forward to a successful 23/24 season in the fourth division, it is clear that the sponsorship deal between Wrexham and STōK Cold Brew has been met with much enthusiasm.

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WATCH THIS STORY: Top Footballers That Ryan Reynolds Poached After Acquiring Wrexham

What are your thoughts on this name change? Let us know in the comments.