The Football Association of Wales (FAW) has unveiled a groundbreaking plan involving Wrexham's Hollywood owners, Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, to bring the 2035 Women's World Cup to the UK. With the UK as the sole bidder for hosting the expanded 48-team tournament, the FAW has identified Wrexham's redeveloped Stok Cae Ras as a key venue.

Wrexham's Stadium Expansion

Reynolds and McElhenney are spearheading a major expansion of the Stok Cae Ras, aiming to increase its capacity to around 18,000 with a new 7,750-seater Kop stand. The duo envisions further developments that could eventually accommodate between 45,000 and 55,000 spectators. "The Kop development is a significant first step and the vision for the stadium is incredible," said FAW chief executive Noel Mooney.

A Legacy in the Making

Mooney emphasized the transformative impact of Reynolds and McElhenney's investment. "What Ryan and Rob are doing is amazing. They are looking to invest in the stadium and build up the Cae Ras, which is the oldest international ground in the world," he noted. The potential to host World Cup matches in north Wales represents a monumental legacy for the city and the club.

Strategic Partnerships and Future Prospects

The FAW and Wrexham have been in discussions about the Women's World Cup, with Wales also set to host the 2026 European Under-19 Championship. "The impact of Ryan and Rob has been manna from heaven for us, the timing of it," Mooney added. The synergy between Wrexham's growth and the FAW's strategic goals is expected to yield significant benefits for Welsh football.

Wrexham's Rising Influence

Under Reynolds and McElhenney's leadership, Wrexham has achieved three successive promotions, climbing from the National League to the Championship. The club's investment in player recruitment and youth development is already bearing fruit, with several Welsh internationals joining the ranks. "Wrexham has already started collecting a lot of our national team players, and will produce lots of players for us in the future," Mooney highlighted.

Global Recognition and Support

The global attention garnered by Wrexham's Hollywood ownership has inspired partnerships with FIFA, commercial bodies, and governments. "People all over the world are talking about Wrexham and that inspires partners like Fifa, commercial bodies and governments to get involved," Mooney remarked.

Looking Ahead

The UK's formal bid for the 2035 Women's World Cup will be submitted in November, with approval expected next year. All four home nations will automatically qualify for the tournament, marking a historic moment for Welsh football and the legacy of Wrexham's visionary owners.