Ryan Reynolds and Rob Mac Issue Statement as Wrexham Confirm $5 Bn Investors

Wrexham co-owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney have issued a joint statement after it was announced the Red Dragons have welcomed a new minority investor to the club.

North American actors Reynolds and Mac – formerly McElhenney – bought Wrexham in February 2021 with the side since achieving three successive promotions under the guidance of head coach Phil Parkinson.

However, this term, life in the Championship – English football’s second tier - has proved tough with the side sitting 12th out of 24 teams despite currently being on a nine-game unbeaten run across all competitions.

Still, as things stand, the Red Dragons are just three points from the play-off places after 19 games.

Of the 13 summer signings the club made, Wales international Kieffer Moore has arguably made the biggest impact, having registered eight goals in 18 Championship games since arriving from Sheffield United.

With the January transfer window less than one month from opening, the club may look to splash the cash once more to help the side secure an unprecedented fourth successive promotion.

And they could be helped by new minority investors, Apollo Sports Capital (ASC), an affiliate of Apollo.

The club announced the news on December 8 and stated that the investment “aligns” with Wrexham’s long-term growth strategy and goal of reaching the Premier League.

The investors will help finance the redevelopment of Stok Cae Ras and fund the Wrexham Gateway Project, which relates to developing the city’s connectivity and economic future.

In a joint statement, Reynolds and Mac said: “From day one, we wanted to build a sustainable future for Wrexham Association Football Club. And to do it with a little heart and humour. The dream has always been to take this club to the Premier League while staying true to the town. Growth like that takes world-class partners who share our vision and ambition, and Apollo absolutely does. We have known Al Tylis, the CEO of Apollo Sports Capital, for many years and are thrilled to now have ASC join the Wrexham family as we take the next step forward together.”

There are no details about the amount put forward in relation to the investment, although it is thought to be less than a 10 percent stake, as per BBC Sport.

ASC also became the majority shareholder in La Liga's Atletico last month and became known to Reynolds and Mac through various other investments - such as a small stake in Mexican club Necaxa.

Apollo claims to have than $900bn (£675bn) of assets under management.

Apollo Partner and Co-Portfolio Manager of ASC Lee Solomon said: “Wrexham is on an incredible journey, and we are thrilled to be a part of it and to support the Club, the Wrexham community, and Rob and Ryan. This is a multi-faceted investment where Apollo Sports Capital can provide long-term, patient capital to help Wrexham reach its goals and to contribute to the ongoing revitalization of the facilities and local economy.”