Wrexham AFC Miss Premier League Promotion in Dramatic Championship Playoff Finish

Season 5 of Welcome to Wrexham concluded without the triumphant ending fans had grown accustomed to over the past three seasons. Wrexham AFC, co-owned by actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, narrowly missed a fourth consecutive promotion after a 2-2 draw against Middlesbrough on the final day of the EFL Championship season.

The Welsh football club, which emerged from bankruptcy under Reynolds and McElhenney’s ownership, entered the season finale in sixth place in the Championship standings. This position would have secured a spot in the playoffs, where the top two teams earn automatic promotion to the Premier League, while teams in third through sixth place compete in a four-team playoff for the final promotion spot.

Wrexham’s Playoff Hopes Dashed by Middlesbrough Draw

With a tiebreaker advantage over Hull City, Wrexham needed only a win against Middlesbrough—already qualified for the playoffs in fifth place—to secure their spot. However, the match took a dramatic turn early on when Middlesbrough’s Tommy Conway scored within the first five minutes.

Wrexham responded with goals from forwards Josh Windass and Sam Smith, but Middlesbrough equalized just before halftime, leaving the score tied at 2-2. In the second half, both teams missed key scoring opportunities, and the match ended in a draw. Meanwhile, Hull City defeated Norwich City 2-1, leapfrogging Wrexham for the final playoff spot.

Historic Season Ends with Painful Near-Miss

Despite the disappointment, Wrexham’s season marked the club’s best-ever finish in its 150+ year history, surpassing a 15th-place finish in the Championship in 1979. The campaign also featured the standout performance of injury-stricken star Paul Mullin, who became a breakout character in Welcome to Wrexham.

“I am completely gutted by today’s result but incredibly proud of our season. We’ve come a long way in five years and this was the best result in our 150+ year history. More to do. But for now, we have so much to be proud of, Reds.”
— Ryan Reynolds, May 2, 2026

Reynolds shared his sentiments on social media, acknowledging the heartbreak while celebrating the club’s progress under his and McElhenney’s ownership.

Bright Future Ahead for Wrexham AFC

Though the playoff spot slipped away, another season in the Championship provides Reynolds, McElhenney, and CEO Michael Williamson with additional time to strengthen the team’s financial position. This could pave the way for a more competitive squad when the club eventually secures promotion to the Premier League.