Wrexham AFC is featured in the EA Sports FIFA video game series primarily due to the significant surge in its global popularity and media attention, sparked by its acquisition by Hollywood actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney.
The Rise to Global Prominence
The Welsh football club, Wrexham AFC, gained unprecedented international recognition following its takeover by Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney in February 2021. This high-profile acquisition immediately thrust the previously non-league club into the global spotlight, generating immense interest far beyond traditional football circles.
The subsequent launch of the Emmy-winning docuseries, Welcome to Wrexham, which premiered on FX in August 2022, further amplified the club's profile. The series chronicled the actors' journey as owners and the club's efforts to climb back into the English Football League, captivating audiences worldwide and turning Wrexham into a pop culture phenomenon.
Inclusion in the FIFA Series
As a direct result of this newfound celebrity and public fascination, EA Sports made the strategic decision to include Wrexham AFC in FIFA 22 (released in 2021). The club was placed in the game's "Rest of World" category, which typically features teams from various leagues outside the main licensed ones. This inclusion was a deliberate "nod to pop culture's larger interest in the smaller side," acknowledging the club's unique narrative and its heightened relevance in mainstream media.
The presence of Wrexham in the game allowed players to manage and play with the team, further expanding its fan base and solidifying its place in popular culture. Even in subsequent versions like FIFA 23, players could find "Easter eggs" in the game's commentary referencing the celebrity owners, indicating the lasting impact of their involvement.
Here's a brief timeline of key events leading to Wrexham's FIFA inclusion:
| Event | Date/Game | Impact on Wrexham's Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Ryan Reynolds & Rob McElhenney Acquire Wrexham AFC | February 2021 | Global media attention, increased interest from Hollywood and pop culture. |
| Wrexham AFC Included in FIFA 22 | September 2021 | First appearance in the popular video game, placed in the "Rest of World" category. |
| Welcome to Wrexham Docuseries Premieres | August 2022 | Significantly broadens the club's audience and cements its status as a pop culture phenomenon. |
Wrexham's presence in the FIFA game is a testament to the power of celebrity ownership and media storytelling in elevating a football club's status from local heroes to international sensations.
