WREXHAM, Wales (AP) — Wrexham, the Welsh soccer team co-owned by actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, secured promotion to the third tier of English football with a resounding 6-0 victory over Forest Green on Saturday. This achievement marks back-to-back promotions for Wrexham, propelling them closer to the prestigious Premier League.
Needing a win against Forest Green and favorable results from other matches, Wrexham delivered a dominant performance, leading 4-0 at halftime. Meanwhile, MK Dons squandered an early lead in a 4-1 defeat to Mansfield, and Barrow fell 3-0 to Gillingham, paving the way for Wrexham's promotion celebrations.
Currently sitting in second place in League Two, Wrexham is four points behind league leaders Stockport, who also secured promotion on the same day. With the top three teams earning automatic promotion to League One, Wrexham's promotion is now guaranteed, as fourth-placed MK Dons cannot catch up.
Reynolds and McElhenney's ownership of Wrexham began in 2021 when they purchased the club for $2.5 million. Last season, the team clinched the National League title, marking their return to the English Football League after a 15-year absence. This season's promotion to the third tier is a historic achievement for Wrexham, as it is the first time in the club's 159-year history that they have earned promotion in consecutive seasons.
Reflecting on the team's success, Reynolds expressed his joy on social media, highlighting the emotional journey and the pride he feels for Wrexham's accomplishments. The team's remarkable rise under the ownership of the Hollywood duo has been documented in the show 'Welcome to Wrexham'.
Wrexham's promotion to League One signifies a significant milestone for the club and its dedicated fans, as they continue their pursuit of success in English football.