Wrexham AFC's Hollywood owners, Ryan Reynolds and Rob Mac, face scrutiny over an £18 million public grant to build a new stand at the Racecourse Ground. The funding, reallocated from a £25 million Welsh Government grant approved in spring 2023, will finance a 7,750-seat Kop stand, boosting capacity to around 18,000. The project is part of the broader Wrexham Gateway regeneration scheme, aimed at restoring the venue's ability to host international rugby and football matches, as well as major concerts.
Football finance expert Stefan Borson questioned why taxpayers should subsidise a stand that will ultimately benefit the club's wealthy owners. He argued that Reynolds and Mac are 'very wealthy and liquid,' and the non-repayable grant effectively supports a thriving global brand. However, Kieran Maguire, another football finance specialist, suggested the criticism stems partly from 'jealousy and envy' over Wrexham's recent success, including three consecutive promotions.
Maguire noted that public-private partnerships are common in football, citing examples like West Ham United and Manchester City. He emphasised that the community stands to gain from increased profile and economic activity, but stressed the need for proper checks and balances to ensure value for money. A Wrexham AFC spokesperson confirmed the funds will also cover stadium improvements, such as upgraded floodlights and pitch, to meet international standards.
The grant was approved after a previous bid for UK Government Levelling Up funding was rejected in early 2023, leaving the Welsh Government and local council to fill the gap. Preparatory work for the new stand is already underway, with the project expected to create jobs and boost tourism in North Wales. A Wrexham Council representative stated that the grant is not repayable, but safeguards are in place to ensure proper use.
