The historic Racecourse Ground, home to Wrexham AFC, is set for a monumental transformation under the ambitious ownership of Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney. Following the global success of the Welcome to Wrexham documentary, which showcased the club’s meteoric rise and revitalization under its new owners, the duo has unveiled even grander plans to expand and modernize the iconic stadium.
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Revised proposals for the redevelopment of the stadium’s Kop End stand have been revealed, aiming to significantly increase capacity and cement the Racecourse Ground as a landmark for North Wales sports and entertainment.
From 5,500 to 7,000 Seats: Meeting Surging Demand
Initially approved for a 5,500-seat stand, the Kop End expansion plan has now been revised to accommodate up to 7,000 seats due to the skyrocketing demand for tickets. Wrexham’s recent success, including their push for a third consecutive promotion to the Championship, has created a surge in fan interest. The Welcome to Wrexham series has also captured the hearts of a global audience, making the club a household name far beyond Wales.
Speaking about the project, Wrexham executive director Humphrey Ker described the updated designs as “standing out from the skyline,” emphasizing the owners’ goal of creating a structure that is both functional and iconic.
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World-Class Architects on Board
To realize their vision, Reynolds and McElhenney have enlisted the expertise of Populous, the world-renowned architectural firm behind projects like Wembley Stadium and Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Appointed in October 2024, Populous is tasked with designing a state-of-the-art facility that blends seamlessly with the rest of the Racecourse Ground while preparing the venue for future upgrades.
The Kop End redevelopment is just the first phase of a larger master plan. According to minutes from a recent club advisory board meeting, additional phases are set to revamp other parts of the stadium, including the 4,200-capacity Wrexham Lager Stand. The long-term goal? An overall capacity of up to 55,000 seats, which would make the Racecourse Ground one of the largest stadiums outside of England’s top leagues.
A Vision for the Future: 55,000-Seat Capacity
Rob McElhenney, creator of It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, has expressed his dream of transforming the Racecourse Ground into a massive arena capable of hosting up to 55,000 fans. Speaking on the Collider entertainment news podcast, McElhenney outlined the phased approach: “We have a plan in place that would eventually work from stand to stand. So, eventually, you get all four sides done. It’s hard to say for sure, but we think we could get between 45,000 and 55,000 people in there.”
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This ambitious expansion aligns with the club’s broader vision of competing at the highest levels of English football while serving as a beacon for sports and culture in North Wales.
Public Support and Financial Backing
The project has received more than £17 million in funding from the Welsh Government, reflecting its significance to the local economy and community. However, the increased capacity will require an updated planning application, adding to the bureaucratic challenges that Reynolds and McElhenney have frequently lamented.
In an interview with Collider, McElhenney shared his frustration: “It’s definitely a comedic point of consternation in the show, how often we’re running up against bureaucracy. Of course, safety concerns and regulations are in place for a reason, but some hurdles seem unnecessary. It’s a lot harder to build in the U.K. than almost anywhere else in the world.”
Despite these setbacks, the club remains optimistic about completing the Kop End stand by summer 2026, just in time for Wrexham to host part of the UEFA European Under-19 Championship.
A Quickfire Revamp for International Events
In addition to the major expansion projects, Wrexham AFC is planning a rapid overhaul of the stadium’s pitch immediately after the final match of the current season. This upgrade is designed to prepare the Racecourse Ground for hosting international football and rugby matches, further elevating its status as a premier venue.
The move reflects Reynolds and McElhenney’s commitment to not only elevating Wrexham AFC but also making the Racecourse Ground a key destination for global sports and entertainment events.
Global Impact of the “Hollywood Effect”
Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney’s investment in Wrexham has already had a transformative impact on the club and its surrounding community. The Welcome to Wrexham documentary has introduced millions to the rich history of the club and its passionate fanbase, creating a wave of international support.
The proposed stadium upgrades are part of a larger strategy to capitalize on this newfound popularity. With increased capacity, modernized facilities, and a long-term vision for sustained growth, the Racecourse Ground is poised to become a symbol of ambition and innovation in football.
The Future of Wrexham AFC
As the Kop End redevelopment moves forward, Wrexham fans are dreaming big alongside their Hollywood owners. The journey from a historic club in non-league football to a global phenomenon is a testament to the power of vision, investment, and unwavering belief in the potential of a community.
With Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney at the helm, Wrexham AFC is not just rewriting its own history—it’s setting an example for how passion and ambition can transform the world of sports. The Racecourse Ground expansion is more than a construction project; it’s a statement of intent, signaling that Wrexham’s rise is far from over.
