Massive Growth – that’s the term that springs to mind when discussing Wrexham and the ownership of Hollywood’s Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney. The investment from this dynamic duo has not only propelled the soccer team to new heights but has also had a significant positive impact on the town and its residents. This isn’t just a tale out of a film; it reflects what is unfolding in Wrexham as it experiences remarkable growth following its acquisition.
Ryan and Rob joined forces in February 2021, completely taking over the club at that time. Since then, the Welsh side has advanced from the fifth tier of English football to now compete in League One, while having more than quadrupled in value since these stars decided to make Wrexham their second home. Yet, it’s not solely the soccer team reaping the rewards.
Following their takeover, tourism revenue in Wrexham has seen a huge boost as well. Recent statistics indicate that visitor numbers have surged by 21%, with over two million people flocking to the city in the last year alone. The influence of Ryan Reynolds’ involvement has particularly transformed Wrexham into an international sensation.
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With high-profile names associated with the city and a successful documentary series capturing attention, the name Wrexham has become beloved among fans especially in America and beyond. As a result, tourism alone has generated approximately $220 million. To put it into perspective, these numbers are about $120 million more than what the City was reporting ten years ago.
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It’s evident that this Hollywood association has turned this Welsh city into an appealing tourist hotspot where one can simply grab a drink while watching the Red Dragons play live. However, it’s worth noting that it’s not only the city of Wrexham that has seen exponential growth. Ryan and Rob themselves have enjoyed newfound recognition since taking ownership of Wrexham.
Wrexham has shown Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney a new light
Have you heard of Ted Lasso? It’s a series about an American who, despite lacking any soccer experience, takes on the challenge of coaching an English soccer team. This story is similar to what unfolded with Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, who stepped in to take over Wrexham without prior knowledge of the game.
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However, their journey has evolved significantly since then. Recently, Rob McElhenney expressed his personal growth by saying, “Oh, wow! I mean, I’ve just become so close with the players, with the staff, with everybody in the town that it just becomes a space for emotional growth.”
He further mentioned how he “never considered myself a football fan – and now, I have devoted my entire life and a good portion of my business and an exceptional amount of my time & effort into the sport and into the town.” From a viewer’s standpoint, what is unfolding at Wrexham feels like something out of a television show or film. It will be intriguing to see what lies ahead for them.