The Hollywood takeover of Wrexham AFC by Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney in 2021 has become one of the most extraordinary stories in modern sports. What started as a modest £2 million investment in a club languishing in the fifth tier of English football has transformed into a remarkable ascent that’s rewriting history.

When Reynolds and McElhenney completed their purchase, Wrexham were in the National League, far from the spotlight. Few could have imagined the rapid rise that followed. No team in the 138-year history of English football’s professional leagues had ever achieved three consecutive promotions, until Wrexham did exactly that.

• 2022-23: Promoted from the National League as champions.
• 2023-24: Promoted from League Two (as runners-up).
• 2024-25: Promoted from League One (as runners-up).

This historic hat-trick of promotions marked Wrexham as the first club to climb three divisions in successive seasons at this level, a feat unmatched in the English Football League era.

Now, in the 2025-26 season, the Red Dragons are competing in the EFL Championship, the second tier, and their Premier League dream remains very much alive. As of early March 2026, Wrexham sits in the playoff spots, holding sixth place with around 57 points after 35 games, firmly in contention for promotion via the end-of-season playoffs. A win could secure a spot at Wembley and a shot at the top flight. Even if they fall short this time, the momentum is undeniable, with a chance to achieve an unprecedented fourth straight promotion.

Adding to the fairy-tale factor, Wrexham recently gave Chelsea a massive scare in the FA Cup fifth round on March 7, 2026. The Championship side twice took the lead against the Premier League heavyweights at a raucous Racecourse Ground—Sam Smith opened the scoring in the 18th minute, and Callum Doyle restored the advantage with a clever flick in the 78th. Despite going down to 10 men after a late red card (George Dobson sent off in stoppage time), Wrexham forced extra time in a pulsating 2-2 draw after 90 minutes.

Chelsea eventually prevailed 4-2 in extra time thanks to goals from Josh Acheampong (equalizer), Alejandro Garnacho (extra-time winner), and João Pedro (late sealer), but the Blues were made to work for it every step of the way. Headlines called it a “thrilling FA Cup classic” and an “instant classic,” with Wrexham’s spirited performance earning widespread praise for nearly causing one of the biggest upsets in modern cup history. This cup run against elite opposition only underscores the rapid transformation under Reynolds and McElhenney—no longer just a plucky underdog, but a club capable of troubling the best.

This moment captured global attention, further boosting the club’s valuation and proving that Wrexham’s rise isn’t just about league promotions—it’s about competing fearlessly at higher levels.

The financial upside is staggering. Bloomberg has valued the club at approximately £350 million (around $475 million in recent reports), representing roughly 175 times the original £2 million investment, a mind-blowing return fueled by global exposure from the Welcome to Wrexham documentary series, surging commercial revenues, sponsorships, and the club’s growing international fanbase.

Even without reaching the Premier League immediately, the valuation reflects the brand’s transformation into a worldwide phenomenon. Global television deals, merchandise sales, and celebrity-driven attention have elevated Wrexham far beyond its humble beginnings. Should they secure promotion to the Premier League, the value could skyrocket further, with worldwide broadcasts, increased sponsorships, and the prestige of English football’s top division.

Reynolds and McElhenney’s approach, combining smart management (sticking with manager Phil Parkinson), heavy investment in the squad and facilities, and masterful storytelling, has turned a risky venture into what could arguably be the greatest investment story in sports history. From non-league obscurity to the brink of the Premier League in just a few years, Wrexham’s journey proves that with vision, persistence, and a bit of Hollywood magic, the impossible can become reality.

Whether they clinch that fourth promotion this season or build toward it in the years ahead, one thing is clear: Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney didn’t just buy a football club—they ignited a legacy that’s captivating fans around the world. The Premier League beckons, and the Red Dragons are ready to answer the call.