Wrexham AFC, the Welsh football club famously co-owned by Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, has achieved promotion to the EFL Championship, England`s second division, for the first time since 1982. This historic ascent was sealed with a dominant 3-0 victory at home against Charlton Athletic.
This marks Wrexham`s third successive promotion, an unprecedented feat in the top five tiers of English football. Secured in style at The Racecourse Ground, early goals from Ollie Rathbone and Sam Smith set Phil Parkinson`s side on course for the win. With rivals Wycombe Wanderers dropping points earlier on Saturday, Wrexham`s second-place finish in League One was guaranteed, confirming their rise to the Championship.
Since being acquired by McElhenney and Reynolds in November 2020, Wrexham has rapidly climbed the leagues, having previously spent over a decade struggling in the fifth-tier National League, often facing financial difficulties. Their new status means they will compete against prominent clubs like Southampton and Leicester City next season, and potentially Sunderland depending on playoff outcomes.
Competing in the second tier will significantly boost the club`s global profile, which has already grown immensely thanks to the popular documentary series “Welcome to Wrexham,” following the team`s journey under the new ownership. Fans worldwide, and particularly in North Wales, celebrated the team`s impressive campaign and the manner in which promotion was secured.
Wrexham took the lead in the 15th minute through a powerful low shot from Ollie Rathbone following a short corner, an effort that flew through a crowded box. Just moments later, Sam Smith doubled the lead with a spectacular volley from a clipped ball over the defence by Matty James, putting Wrexham firmly in control.
Despite Charlton`s efforts to respond, creating a few chances including a save forced by Arthur Okonkwo from Tennai Watson, Wrexham`s defence held firm in the second half, capably clearing crosses. With about ten minutes remaining, Wrexham sealed the victory. Max Cleworth delivered a fine cross which Sam Smith headed home, with a slight deflection off Macauley Gillesphey leaving the goalkeeper Will Mannion without a chance and confirming the 3-0 scoreline.
The final whistle sparked joyous celebrations among the sell-out crowd, marking a promotion that seemed almost impossible just a few years prior. Wrexham`s remarkable journey continues into the Championship.
Dominic Ashworth