Rob McElhenney, co-owner of Wrexham Football Club, has opened up about his perspective on who he feels least sorry for when sports teams face challenging times. In a recent interview on the Hot Ones show on YouTube, the It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia star, who acquired Wrexham alongside Ryan Reynolds in 2021, shared his candid views. Despite experiencing successes like consecutive promotions under manager Phil Parkinson, a recent loss to Leyton Orient served as a reminder of the ups and downs in sports. While one might assume McElhenney would sympathise with owners who face criticism during tough times, he bluntly stated, “F*** them,” expressing that his foremost concern lies with the supporters and athletes who endure the highs and lows of team performance.
McElhenney highlighted the cyclical nature of sports teams, acknowledging that while some may experience periods of success and failure, it is ultimately the fanbase and players who bear the emotional weight of these fluctuations. Emphasising the importance of top-down support for teams to thrive, he stressed that the fanbase deserves better and that meaningful change must originate from the leadership level. Drawing parallels between his role on Always Sunny and his responsibilities at Wrexham, McElhenney described himself as straddling between management and workforce roles, prioritising support for the players over the owners in both settings. His unwavering stance on prioritising fans and players resonates with the ethos of creating an inclusive and supportive environment within the club.
As part of their commitment to fans, McElhenney and Reynolds marked the fourth anniversary of their Wrexham takeover by treating patrons at The Turf pub to complimentary drinks. The gesture, which allowed fans to enjoy a selection of beverages on the house, exemplified the duo’s ongoing efforts to engage with the local community and express gratitude for their support. The Turf pub, a prominent location featured in the Welcome to Wrexham documentary series, has become a symbol of the club’s journey under new ownership. The series, which documents the highs and lows of McElhenney and Reynolds’ tenure, has garnered significant attention and praise for its candid portrayal of the club’s evolution.
Wrexham AFC has experienced remarkable growth under the ownership of McElhenney and Reynolds, with two consecutive promotions propelling the club into the global spotlight. The success of the Disney+ documentary ‘Welcome to Wrexham’ has further elevated the club’s profile, attracting fans from across the world. To address the need for comprehensive coverage and insights, ‘Wrexham is the Game’ offers a dedicated source of information delivered straight to fans’ inboxes. Featuring informed analysis, opinions, and a touch of humour, the newsletter provides a deeper understanding of the club’s journey and achievements. Subscribers can access this exclusive content for an introductory rate, highlighting the club’s commitment to engaging fans and sharing the excitement of their progress.
In reflecting on his dual roles as a club owner and a creative artist, McElhenney’s unwavering support for fans and players underscores his commitment to fostering a thriving and inclusive environment at Wrexham. By prioritising the well-being of those who invest their passion and dedication in the club, McElhenney and Reynolds epitomise a new era of ownership that values community engagement and mutual respect. The duo’s approach to leadership and their willingness to engage with fans on a personal level exemplify a refreshing perspective in the realm of professional sports ownership. As Wrexham continues its upward trajectory, guided by a shared vision of success and inclusivity, the club’s journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of genuine connection and unwavering support within the sporting community.