Wrexham A.F.C.

Wrexham A.F.C.: The Oldest Professional Football Club in Wales

Imagine a club that has been around since 1864, standing tall as one of the oldest professional football clubs not just in Wales but also in the entire world. That’s Wrexham Association Football Club (Wrexham A.F.C.), a team with a rich and storied history that spans over a century and a half.

The Early Years

Formed in 1864, Wrexham A.F.C. was one of the pioneers in the world of football. The club initially participated in friendlies and cup competitions before making its way into league play with an entry to The Combination in 1890. Over the next decade, they would win four titles in this competition and two more in the Welsh Senior League.

Championships and Promotions

Their journey through the leagues was marked by significant achievements. In 1961-62, Wrexham was promoted out of the Fourth Division to reach the Second Division for the first time after winning the Third Division title in 1977-78. They also won the Football League Trophy in 2005 and the FA Trophy in 2013.

European Glory

The club’s European exploits are equally impressive, with notable victories over FC Porto in 1984 and a run to the quarter-finals of both the European Cup Winners’ Cup and the UEFA Cup. Their home stadium, the Racecourse Ground, is the world’s oldest international stadium that still hosts international games.

Modern Era

In recent years, Wrexham A.F.C. has seen a significant transformation under new ownership. Canadian actor Ryan Reynolds and American actor Rob McElhenney purchased the club in 2020 for $2 million, bringing global attention to this Welsh powerhouse.

Recent Successes

The club’s resurgence was evident when they won their first league title in 45 years during the 2021-22 season. They secured back-to-back promotions to EFL League One and finished second behind Stockport County FC. Their success has not only brought new fans but also a renewed sense of pride among supporters.

Community and Fan Base

The Wrexham Supporters’ Trust took over the day-to-day running of the club in 2015, ensuring that the team remains deeply rooted in its community. Notable figures such as Chris Hadfield, Paul Burrell, Tim Vincent, Llŷr Ifans, Ted Robbins, Andy Scott, Lloyd Roberts, and Gareth Evans are among the club’s supporters.

Rivalries

Wrexham A.F.C.’s rivalries extend beyond Wales. They compete with Chester FC, Shrewsbury Town, Tranmere Rovers, Crewe Alexandra, Port Vale, Cardiff City, Newport County, and Swansea City. The club’s mascot, Wrex the Dragon, was introduced in 2001-02 to increase sponsorship and promote Welsh identity.

Future Prospects

The future looks bright for Wrexham A.F.C., with new investments and a strong fan base. As they continue to grow both on and off the pitch, one can only imagine what more this historic club will achieve in the coming years.

Wrexham A.F.C. is more than just a football club; it’s a symbol of resilience, community spirit, and the enduring passion for the beautiful game. As they continue their journey, one thing is certain: Wrexham will always be remembered as one of the giants in Welsh football.