Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney announce next step in Wrexham masterplan
Wrexham appoint the architects behind the Sphere Las Vegas to draw up a new masterplan for the Racecourse Ground
Wrexham AFC has hired the architects behind Wembley Stadium and the Las Vegas Sphere to create a new masterplan for the Racecourse Ground. It's the latest high-profile move from Hollywood actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney who bought the club in 2020 when it was still in the non-league.
Populous, which also designed the Tottenham Hotspur, Yankee and Principality stadiums, will initially focus on redesigning a new Kop stand. The stand at the 13,000-capacity Stok Cae Ras will accommodate 5,500 fans and feature safe standing, hospitality and accessible seating areas.
Wrexham CEO Michael Williamson said: "We are determined to ensure the new Kop stand and the future vision of the Stok Cae Ras satisfies the needs and expectations of our fans and the local community and the appointment of Populous as architect for the redesign reflects that.
READ MORE: Coleen Rooney supported as she issue heartfelt tribute after personal updateREAD MORE: Bruce Springsteen makes Liverpool admission as 'dream' set to finally come true
"We appreciate the efforts of those who have worked on this project to date, allowing us to now focus our attention on the activation of areas within the new stand, while remaining consistent with the capacity and volume that was previously presented.
"We look forward to engaging with fans and the local community as plans and designs for the stand take shape, along with other stakeholders and strategic partners including Wrexham County Borough Council, our Wrexham Gateway partners, Wrexham University, the Welsh Government, and the FA of Wales. This is an exciting time for the Club, our supporters and the City as we continue our upward momentum."
Since taking over, Reynolds and McElhenney have transformed Wrexham AFC into a global brand, securing sponsorship deals with the likes of American Airlines and propelling the club up two divisions to League One. Declan Sharkey, Global Director at Populous, said: "We’re extremely proud to be appointed to work on the new Kop stand and to explore the potential for a wider vision and masterplan for the future Stok Cae Ras.
"Our aim is to create a home for Wrexham’s passionate fans and the community that pays tribute to the heritage and traditions of the club and the city itself. The Kop stand will be the epicentre of the atmosphere at the ground on matchday, while incorporating enhanced facilities that can be used every day throughout the year."
