Wrexham AFC will host Chelsea in the fifth round of the FA Cup, a draw that left co-owner Ryan Reynolds visibly stunned, according to a video posted on social media Monday evening. The Welsh club, currently competing in League Two, secured the match-up after defeating Ipswich Town 1-0 on Friday, continuing a remarkable run for the team since its takeover by Reynolds and Rob McElhenney in 2021.
Reynolds, along with actor Hugh Jackman, filmed their reaction to the FA Cup draw, with Reynolds initially expressing disbelief. “Wait, wait, wait… we’re home to Chelsea?” he said, before celebrating with Jackman. Jackman remarked, “That’s what you wanted!” Reynolds then posted the video to X, captioning it “Chelsea at the Racecourse! Holy crap.”
The FA Cup draw represents a significant moment for Wrexham, a club that has experienced three consecutive promotions under its new ownership, rising from the National League to League Two. The team is currently in contention for another promotion, holding a playoff position as of February 2026, with aspirations of reaching the Premier League. Wrexham previously reached the FA Cup quarter-finals twice, in the 1973-74 and 1996-97 seasons.
Chelsea, a Premier League powerhouse, dispatched Hull City 4-0 to advance to the fifth round. The match at Wrexham’s Racecourse Ground is scheduled for March 7th. Wrexham previously defeated Premier League opposition in the FA Cup, beating Nottingham Forest in a penalty shootout in the previous round.
The draw has garnered significant attention, highlighting Wrexham’s rapid ascent and the impact of Reynolds and McElhenney’s investment. The club’s success story has been widely documented, with the Hollywood actors’ involvement bringing global recognition to the historic Welsh side.
