WREXHAM AFC STADIUM REDEVELOPMENT AND PITCH UPDATE

Wrexham AFC Stadium Redevelopment and Pitch Update

Wrexham AFC’s journey from non-league obscurity to the cusp of Premier League football has been nothing short of remarkable. Central to this transformation is the redevelopment of their historic home, the Racecourse Ground, now known as STōK Cae Ras. With Hollywood owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney at the helm, the club is investing heavily in infrastructure to support its aspirations at the highest levels of English footb

Stadium Redevelopment: A Vision for the Future

The cornerstone of Wrexham’s stadium redevelopment is the construction of a new 5,500-capacity Kop Stand. This stand, designed by renowned architects Populous, aims to create a vibrant home end that amplifies the atmosphere for supporters. The design incorporates safe standing areas, hospitality suites, and accessible seating, ensuring inclusivity for all fans. A distinctive feature is the external brick façade, inspired by the region’s historic Ruabon red bricks, paying homage to Wrexham’s industrial heritage

The new stand will also serve as the players’ entrance, featuring a dedicated player tunnel that allows fans to greet the team as they take the field. Behind the stand, a public plaza is planned, which will function as a fan zone on matchdays and a community space throughout the week. This plaza will include a memorial to the miners who lost their lives in the 1934 Gresford disaster, further embedding the club within the local community

In March 2025, Wrexham County Borough Council approved the plans for the new Kop Stand, with construction slated to commence soon. The project is expected to be completed in time for the UEFA European Under-19 Championship finals in the summer of 2026, which will be hosted in Wales

Pitch Overhaul: Preparing for Championship Football

To complement the stadium redevelopment, Wrexham AFC is undertaking a significant upgrade to the playing surface. A £1 million investment will see the installation of a new stitch pitch with undersoil heating and advanced drainage systems. This overhaul replaces the old pitch, irrigation system, and soil, ensuring a high-quality playing surface that meets the demands of Championship fo

The pitch will also be repositioned by two meters toward the Kop End, aligning with the new stand’s construction. Additionally, new LED boards will be installed around three stands, and synthetic turf will outline the pitch, enhancing the stadium’s aesthetics and functionality .

Community and Cultural Integration

Beyond the physical upgrades, Wrexham AFC is committed to ensuring that the redevelopment reflects the club’s deep ties to the local community. The design elements, such as the brick façade and the memorial plaza, are intentional nods to Wrexham’s rich history and cultural identity. By integrating these features, the club aims to create a stadium that is not only a modern sports venue but also a symbol of community pride and heritage

Looking Ahead

As Wrexham AFC prepares for life in the Championship, the stadium and pitch upgrades are pivotal in supporting the club’s ambitions. The redevelopment of STōK Cae Ras is more than just a construction project; it is a statement of intent, signaling Wrexham’s readiness to compete at the highest levels of English football. With the backing of Reynolds and McElhenney, the club is poised to continue its ascent, and the revamped stadium will serve as a fitting backdrop to this exciting new chapter.