The History of Wrexham AFC: A Legacy of Passion, Perseverance, and Revival
Introduction
Wrexham Association Football Club, more commonly known as Wrexham AFC, is not only the oldest professional football club in Wales but also one of the most storied in the world. Founded in 1864, its journey through the ages mirrors the broader evolution of football itself. From Victorian-era roots and regional dominance to European adventures and modern-day Hollywood-backed revival, Wrexham’s tale is one of resilience, transformation, and deep connection to its community.
In this expansive account, we’ll walk through the defining periods in Wrexham’s history—charting their formation, growth, struggles, and remarkable resurgence into the limelight.
Chapter 1: The Birth of a Football Institution (1864–1890)
Wrexham AFC was born out of a simple idea: giving cricketers a way to stay fit during the winter. On October 4, 1864, members of the Wrexham Cricket Club gathered at the Turf Hotel, adjacent to the Racecourse Ground, to establish a football team. The Racecourse, already used for sporting events, would become the club’s home—a status it maintains to this day, making it the world’s oldest international football stadium still in use.
The early years of the club were informal. Matches were played under varying rules and team sizes, as the modern standardized game was still evolving. But Wrexham quickly distinguished itself. In 1877, the club participated in the first Welsh Cup competition and won the inaugural trophy in 1878, setting the stage for a long-standing dominance in Welsh football. Over time, Wrexham would go on to win the Welsh Cup more than 20 times, a record that underscores their foundational role in the country’s footballing identity.
Chapter 2: Establishing Roots in the Football League (1890–1939)
As football formalized across the UK, Wrexham became increasingly competitive. In the early 20th century, the club joined the Birmingham and District League, followed by the Combination League, where they found success and stability.
The pivotal moment came in 1921, when Wrexham was elected to the newly formed Football League Third Division North. Their first match in the Football League was played against Hartlepools United in front of 8,000 fans. During these interwar years, Wrexham built a loyal following and continued to perform respectably in both league and cup competitions.
Importantly, the interwar period also helped establish the club’s community roots. Wrexham AFC became a source of pride for the working-class town. Football was more than a pastime—it was a social glue binding people across generational lines.
Chapter 3: Post-War Era and Modest Success (1945–1968)
The post-WWII period was one of consolidation for Wrexham. The club remained in the lower divisions of the Football League but enjoyed relative stability. During this era, the Racecourse Ground was modernized, and attendance remained strong, particularly during FA Cup ties.
Notable during this time were Wrexham’s spirited performances in the domestic cup competitions. Although league form often wavered, the club continued to build its identity as a resilient side capable of giant-killing feats and strong home performances.
The groundwork was being laid for a more ambitious future—both in terms of management and squad development.
Chapter 4: The Golden Years (1969–1982)
Wrexham entered a golden era in the late 1960s and throughout the 1970s. Under the leadership of manager John Neal, the club achieved some of its greatest footballing accomplishments. The high point came during the 1977–78 season when Wrexham were crowned Third Division champions, earning promotion to the Second Division (now known as the Championship), the second tier of English football.
This period also brought with it historic forays into European competition. Thanks to their consistent Welsh Cup triumphs, Wrexham qualified for the now-defunct European Cup Winners’ Cup multiple times. Their most notable European victory came in 1984 when they defeated Portuguese side FC Porto in the second round, a stunning achievement that still ranks as one of the club’s greatest moments.
In parallel, Wrexham became regular FA Cup dark horses, often giving higher-tier teams serious scares. Their ability to punch above their weight became a hallmark of the club.
Chapter 5: The Arsenal Match and the Romance of the Cup (1992)
No history of Wrexham would be complete without mention of January 4, 1992—the day the club stunned reigning English champions Arsenal in the FA Cup Third Round.
In what is still considered one of the greatest FA Cup upsets in history, Wrexham, then bottom of the Football League Fourth Division, beat Arsenal 2–1 at the Racecourse Ground. Goals from Mickey Thomas and Steve Watkin sealed a victory that captured the imagination of football fans across the world.
It wasn’t just a win; it was a symbol. Wrexham, rooted in community and pride, had bested one of football’s wealthiest and most powerful institutions. It was a quintessential “magic of the cup” moment that would come to define the club’s legacy for decades.
Chapter 6: Financial Struggles and Decline (1993–2008)
The 1990s and early 2000s proved to be tumultuous decades for Wrexham. Despite some competitive successes—including winning the Football League Trophy in 2005—the club was plagued by off-field problems.
A major crisis emerged in the mid-2000s when Wrexham’s ownership came under scrutiny. The club’s owners were accused of mismanaging funds and attempting to sell the Racecourse Ground for property development. The fan base, outraged by what they perceived as exploitation, rallied together in protest.
The team suffered relegations, financial penalties, and in 2008, dropped out of the Football League after 87 consecutive years. Wrexham entered the Conference National (now National League), beginning a long exile from the Football League.
Chapter 7: Fan Ownership and the Spirit of Survival (2008–2020)
Following the collapse under private ownership, Wrexham’s salvation came from its supporters. In 2011, after years of campaigning and organizing, the Wrexham Supporters Trust (WST) took full control of the club. It marked a turning point. Fans weren’t just supporters anymore—they were the custodians of their club.
Fan ownership brought transparency and a renewed sense of community purpose. While promotion back to the Football League proved elusive, the club remained competitive in the National League and achieved a major milestone in 2013 by winning the FA Trophy at Wembley.
Yet, the financial limitations of fan ownership also became apparent. Without major investment, returning to the Football League felt increasingly out of reach. Nonetheless, the club’s identity had never been stronger—Wrexham stood as a bastion of football integrity in an increasingly commercialized sport.
Chapter 8: Hollywood Enters the Picture (2020)
In late 2020, news broke that American actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney were interested in purchasing Wrexham AFC. The announcement was met with equal parts bewilderment and excitement.
After fan approval through a democratic vote, the takeover was completed in November 2020. The new owners promised to honor the club’s legacy while investing to secure a sustainable and ambitious future. They also committed to producing a documentary chronicling their stewardship and the club’s transformation. This would become the internationally acclaimed series “Welcome to Wrexham.”
More than a publicity stunt, the Hollywood-backed project brought tangible benefits. The Racecourse Ground was upgraded. Player wages increased, allowing Wrexham to attract higher-caliber talent. International attention surged, bringing new supporters from around the world to a club that had previously operated in relative obscurity.
Chapter 9: Return to Glory (2021–2024)
With the appointment of experienced manager Phil Parkinson in 2021, Wrexham’s rise was swift and dramatic.
In the 2021–22 season, the club narrowly missed promotion, finishing second and losing in the play-offs. However, the following season, Wrexham dominated the National League, winning the title with a record 111 points and securing a long-awaited return to the Football League.
Their momentum didn’t stop. In the 2023–24 season, Wrexham finished second in League Two, earning back-to-back promotions—this time to League One. The achievement was unprecedented in modern times and affirmed the effectiveness of the club’s new vision.
What followed was nothing short of extraordinary. Wrexham continued their form and, by 2025, had achieved a third consecutive promotion, rising into the Championship. This made them the first club in English football history to secure three promotions in a row from the National League to the second tier.
The story of Wrexham had transformed from a community-led survival tale to one of the greatest underdog resurrections in football history.
Chapter 10: Cultural Impact and the Future
Beyond results and league tables, Wrexham’s impact has grown culturally and emotionally. The club has become a symbol of what football can be—authentic, community-driven, and inclusive.
The “Welcome to Wrexham” documentary has been broadcast globally, showcasing not just the on-field action but the emotional depth of the town, its people, and their relationship with the club. It has painted a human story of loyalty, hope, and perseverance that resonates far beyond the confines of sport.
Moreover, Wrexham’s revival is now used as a blueprint for other small clubs seeking sustainable and meaningful success without compromising their identity. Their model—combining fan heritage, media savvy, and ethical investment—might redefine lower-league football dynamics for the better.
Conclusion
The story of Wrexham AFC is more than just wins and losses. It is a living history of resilience, adaptation, and unshakable community spirit. From its Victorian roots and Welsh Cup glories to near collapse and Hollywood salvation, Wrexham’s journey reflects the evolving nature of football itself.
As the club now stands in the Championship with global backing and a swelling fanbase, its mission is clear: to stay true to its working-class roots while dreaming bigger than ever. The red dragon of Wrexham, once nearly extinguished, roars again—louder, prouder, and ready for the next chapter.
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