Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, the owners of Wrexham, have disclosed the sum they have lost since acquiring the Welsh team.
The Hollywood celebrities paid an estimated £2 million for Wrexham two years ago, and Reynolds threatened to “throw up” at the sum they’ve lost since taking over.
The two discovered that since assuming control of the team, they have lost $12 million (£10 million). Notwithstanding the setbacks, the club has experienced a phenomenal surge in global recognition, aided by its “Welcome to Wrexham” documentary on Disney Plus.
Although ticket and shirt sales have climbed as a result, and their social media following has grown, the proprietors disclosed in the documentary that they are still losing money.
Wrexham advisor Shaun Harvey said: “The value that’s coming from the global appeal we’ve been able to create is going to offset those additional costs that we’ve created. The biggest thing that will change in promotion is that people can see the value of Welcome to Wrexham. They can see the value of the profile that’s being built. That’s when the additional sponsorship revenue can be generated.”
It has been a successful two-year spell for the new owners, as they oversaw the Red Dragons promotion from the National League last season, ending their 15-year absence from the Football League.
The good form has continued into this season, as they currently sit third in the league and are one of the favorites for promotion again. Their latest result saw them win 2-0 away to Notts County, the team they beat to the National League title last season, in their thrilling title race.
They have a break from league action this weekend, as they take on fellow League Two side Mansfield Town in the first round of the FA Cup.
Writer’s Opinion
Without a doubt, Wrexham has greatly benefited from the arrival of Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds. They have already had a meteoric rise that doesn’t seem to be abating.
The club was on the verge of complete collapse in 2011, and they wouldn’t be enjoying their current level of success if it weren’t for the supporters’ valiant efforts to save it. Their fan base has earned success, and they have a lot more in store for the upcoming years.
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