Wrexham’s ambitions to compete in Europe will have to wait a bit longer. The Welsh football club, which has gained attention after being acquired by Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, sought to enter the Welsh League Cup. This tournament provides an opportunity for a qualification spot in the UEFA Conference League, but their request was not approved.
The Football Association of Wales (FAW) made a formal request to the English FA to allow Wrexham, along with other Welsh clubs like Cardiff, Swansea, and Newport—who participate in the English leagues—to join this Welsh tournament. However, their proposal was turned down last Friday.
In a statement, the FA clarified its position by noting that while Welsh clubs have the discretion to choose their participation in either the English or Welsh systems, if they opt for the English system, they must adhere to the same rules as their English counterparts. This means Wrexham will need to navigate the English leagues like other clubs if they want to earn qualification for European competitions.
Since the takeover in 2021 for a price of $2.5 million, Wrexham has progressed from the fifth tier to the current third tier of English soccer. Their route to European competition can only come through high placements in the FA Cup or the English League Cup, or through a remarkable finish in the Premier League, should they reach the top flight.
As of now, Wrexham sits third in League One after a recent match against Birmingham ended in a 1-1 tie. The FAW expressed disappointment over the rejection of their proposal, indicating that it could have provided substantial funding—around £3 million annually—for football at all levels in Wales.
The FA also pointed out that if the proposal had been approved, the four Welsh clubs would have had to give up their rights to qualify for UEFA competitions through the English system as long as they remain in the English Football League’s three lower divisions. They would then have to seek a UEFA qualification through the English route only if promoted to the Premier League.
Wrexham has a long history in the English football leagues, having been part of the system since 1921. The club’s journey reflects both the challenges and aspirations of lesser-known teams aiming for greater competition on European soil.
