AFL Architects to work with Wrexham AFC on stadium redevelopment plans

International sports-specialist practice, AFL Architects, has been appointed by Wrexham AFC to redevelop The Racecourse Ground as the club moves into a new era in its history.

The first phase of the plans is currently underway and sets the stage for Wrexham AFC’s new ambitions. New LED boards, sourced from Wembley Stadium, have been installed around the pitch and made their debut in the club’s recent match against Bromley FC. 

The next stages will build from an initial audit and review project carried out by the practice. The AFL team will be identifying opportunities to improve spectator experience throughout the concourses and maximise the value of recent major changes at the club. 

Following on from the high-profile change in ownership by American actor Rob McElhenney and the Canadian actor Ryan Reynolds, the club is exploring new avenues to increase membership, enhance the matchday experience and further invest in the Vanarama National League team.

Part of these plans involve the redevelopment of the Kop stand, once the largest all-standing terrace in the English Football League at 5,000-capacity but now no longer in use.

John Roberts, Director of AFL Architects, said:

This is an exceptionally exciting time for the club. I am always thrilled when AFL is commissioned in my home country, so the prospect of working for the oldest club in Wales is a very welcome one. The team therefore fully understand and respect this club’s heritage and will be working sensitively and closely with them to revitalise their home.

Wrexham AFC Executive Director, Humphrey Ker, commented:

One of the key promises in our owners’ mission statement for Wrexham AFC is to improve the ground. So, it is a hugely positive step forward to be working with AFL as they have a track record of blending the heritage of famous stadiums with an upgraded fan experience.  

Their expertise will also help us ensure that the Racecourse Ground can become a hub for the Wrexham AFC community and we look forward to developing plans together in the coming months.

The Racecourse Ground is the world’s oldest international stadium that still continues to host international games. Wrexham Association Football Club is based in Wrexham, North Wales, and competes in the National League, the fifth tier of the EFL pyramid. Formed in 1864, they are the oldest club in Wales and the third oldest professional team in the world.  

AFL has performed similar redevelopments for football clubs across the leagues, including Liverpool FC, Chelsea FC, Stoke City and several host venues for UEFA EURO events.

About AFL Architects

AFL Architects is an international Sports & Leisure specialist practice, delivering stadia, arenas, training facilities and event masterplans for international sports authorities, football and rugby clubs, venue operators and governing bodies hosting major events. 

Operating across 25 countries worldwide, the practice has created an international reputation for collaboration, commitment and responsiveness in the face of any challenge. The team has delivered 13 projects for major world events, including the FIFA World Cup, UEFA European Championship and the Champions League. 

About Wrexham A.F.C. 

Wrexham Association Football Club is based in Wrexham, North Wales, and competes in the National League. Formed in 1864, they are the oldest club in Wales and the third oldest professional team in the world. Wrexham has won the Welsh Cup a record 23 times and beaten some of the biggest clubs in the game in the English FA Cup and UEFA European Cup Winners Cup. The Racecourse Ground is the world’s oldest international stadium that still continues to host international games.

From August 2011 to January 2021, Wrexham was a supporter-owned football club until the Wrexham Supporters Trust voted to accept a takeover bid from Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds.

The goal of the new owners is to grow the team and return it to the English Football League in front of increased attendances, and in an improved stadium, while making a positive difference to the wider community in Wrexham. This goal is being pursued through four guiding principles: i) to protect the heritage of Wrexham AFC; ii) to reinforce the values of the community; iii) to use Rob and Ryan’s resources to grow the exposure of the club at home and abroad; and iv) to create a winning culture.

Wrexham AFC Limited is wholly owned by The R.R. McReynolds Company, LLC, a company formed pursuant to the Delaware Limited Liability Company Act in the USA. The R.R. McReynolds Company, LLC is owned equally by Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds and as such, they are jointly the ultimate beneficial owners of Wrexham AFC Limited.

For more information, please visit wrexhamafc.co.uk

Images, courtesy: Mark Barnes 

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