Full Breakdown
Wrexham AFC and Liverpool Set for High-Profile Pre-Season Tour in the U.S.
3/5/2026, 1:50:49 AM
Overview of the Tour
Wrexham AFC, the Welsh football club co-owned by actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, is set to embark on a significant pre-season tour in the United States during the summer of 2026. The tour will feature three matches against prominent English teams, including a highly anticipated clash with Liverpool at Yankee Stadium on July 29. This tour marks Wrexham's third visit to the U.S., following successful outings in 2023 and 2024.
Match Schedule and Venues
The tour will kick off on July 25, with Wrexham facing Leeds United at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. Following this, Liverpool will play Sunderland at GEODIS Park in Nashville, Tennessee, on the same day. The marquee event will occur on July 29 at Yankee Stadium in New York City, where Wrexham will take on Liverpool. The tour will conclude on August 2 with Wrexham facing Sunderland at Subaru Park in Philadelphia.
Wrexham's Rise and Significance
Wrexham's ascent through the English football pyramid has garnered significant attention, particularly due to the success of the documentary series "Welcome to Wrexham." Currently positioned sixth in the EFL Championship, the club is vying for promotion to the Premier League, which could add further excitement to their U.S. tour. The potential for Wrexham to enter the Premier League by the time of the tour underscores the club's growing stature and appeal in the U.S. market.
Liverpool's U.S. Engagement Strategy
Liverpool, the reigning Premier League champions, are leveraging this tour to strengthen their brand in the U.S., where they estimate a fanbase of around 26 million. The club's owner, Fenway Sports Group, is based in Boston, and the tour is strategically timed to coincide with the heightened interest in soccer due to the 2026 World Cup. Liverpool's matches are expected to draw large crowds, with the game against Wrexham anticipated to attract around 50,000 fans.
Economic Impact and Fan Engagement
The previous tours by Wrexham have demonstrated a significant economic impact, with estimates suggesting that a single match can generate up to $20 million for local economies. The upcoming tour is expected to continue this trend, providing opportunities for fan engagement and commercial partnerships. Wrexham's CEO, Michael Williamson, emphasized the importance of connecting with their growing fanbase in the U.S. during this pivotal year for soccer.
Official Statements
Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson expressed enthusiasm for the tour, stating, "We have had terrific support on our last trips to the States, and we can’t wait to see our supporters out there again." Liverpool's commitment to community engagement during their tour will also include activities involving club legends, further enhancing their connection with American fans.
Conclusion
The 2026 pre-season tour represents a significant moment for both Wrexham and Liverpool as they seek to capitalize on the growing popularity of soccer in the United States. With high-profile matches scheduled in iconic venues, the tour promises to be a landmark event for both clubs and their supporters.
