A Wrexham official has explained the thinking behind selling a minority stake as the Championship outfit plan for long-term stability
The financial game plan of Wrexham has been revealed following the sale of a minority stake to an American investment firm. Apollo Sports Capital purchased just shy of ten per cent of the Red Dragons earlier this month, in a deal that reportedly values the Championship club at £350million.
The investment will finance the redevelopment of the Racecourse Ground and bolster Wrexham’s dream of eventually climbing to the Premier League. While majority owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob Mac (formerly McElhenney) have grand plans for the club, it has now been clarified that the move is primarily about ensuring long-term stability.
Community director Humphrey Ker provided a frank explanation on the Men in Blazers podcast as to why the Hollywood stars decided to bring in new partners. The actor and comedian had previously explained that the hunt for external investment was partly spurred by Wrexham’s promotion from League One last season, which led to £33m being splashed out on new players over the summer.
Phil Parkinson‘s side currently sitting 15th in the Championship after that substantial squad investment. But Ker emphasised that the main focus moving forward is enhancing the club’s infrastructure, including the establishment of a permanent training ground.
He said: “We had to buy a whole new first team, virtually, and a whole new bench. That outlay, although it is large in some respects, I think our squad is only valued online as about 13th in the Championship. To be where we are and to be competing the way we are feels like a good, respectable showing.
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“The investment is a sign of sustainability for the club going forward that I think is so important. That will allow us to do things in terms of the stadium and training ground. We are going to create an infrastructure for this football club that sets it on a path with other clubs of Premier League and top-end Championship status.”
Wrexham’s spending has attracted criticism from some rivals. Comparing the rise of Swansea City to that of the Red Dragons last week, celebrity supporter Elis James said the Swans’ success was “earned, not bought”.
However, Ker insisted Wrexham are no longer operating above their financial weight in the Championship, particularly regarding player wages. He said it is therefore vital for the club to concentrate on developing other areas to stay competitive.
Ker said: “The thing that has always worried me is, where are we going to get that infrastructure from that’s going to back up all of this? We’re now in a league where our wage bill is not a huge advantage for us. It is smaller than Southampton, Norwich or whoever it may be.
“The thing that gives me real optimism – and it’s unromantic and it’s quite boring – is the fact that we are going to be able to create an environment here for Wrexham to succeed long term.”
Despite recent on-pitch setbacks, including losses to Swansea and Hull City, Ker remains optimistic about Wrexham’s prospects, even though they’re currently seven points off the play-off spots.
He added: “Every year, the challenge has gotten harder and harder, so I think to finish safely in mid-table would be a success. Now, am I saying that’s what I want? No – I would like us to get in the play-offs and have a fun little play-off run.
“I think that’s very, very possible, but I also think two things can be true at once, because 13th can be a very successful season for us and so can sixth.”
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Sky Sports discounted Premier League and EFL package
Sky has slashed the price of its Essential TV and Sky Sports bundle ahead of the 2025/26 season, saving members £192 and offering more than 1,400 live matches across the Premier League, EFL and more.
Sky will show at least 215 live Premier League games next season, an increase of up to 100 more.
