Hollywood actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney have reported a loss of nearly £3m in their first full year as owners of Wrexham FC, despite a surge in turnover. The club's accounts for the 12 months to June 2022 show a loss of £2.914m, driven by a sharp increase in player wages and football costs.
Turnover rose fivefold to almost £6m, up 404% from £1.48m the previous year. Matchday income accounted for £2.65m, retail sales raised £1.303m, and sponsorship and advertising contributed £1.053m. However, player wages and football costs nearly tripled to £3.94m, from £1.34m.
The directors' report, signed by Reynolds, McElhenney, and Humphrey Ker, described the loss as disappointing but predicted. It noted that the play-off semi-final defeat to Grimsby Town 'served to strengthen the collective resolve to gain promotion' this season.
Reynolds and McElhenney purchased the club for £2m in 2021 through their company R.R. McReynolds LLC. The firm provided a loan of £3.67m to the club, which included funds to buy the freehold of the Racecourse ground and £1.2m in share investment. The directors stated there was 'no immediate pressure' to repay loans and expressed commitment to making the club self-sufficient.
The owners pledged to continue backing the club, saying they remain 'committed to playing a full part in the life of the club and making a positive difference' for the community.
