Ryan Reynolds, the actor known for his role as Deadpool, has rapidly become a significant figure in the world of football, extending his influence beyond the pitch and into the business of the game. What began with a high-profile investment in Wrexham AFC has blossomed into a portfolio encompassing multiple teams across different leagues, including a recent venture into Mexican football with Club Necaxa. This expansion reflects a growing trend of celebrity involvement in sports ownership, bringing modern capital and global attention to the beautiful game.
Reynolds, alongside Rob McElhenney, initially gained recognition for their takeover of Wrexham AFC, a Welsh football club playing in the National League. Their ownership has been documented in the popular docuseries “Welcome to Wrexham,” which has garnered critical acclaim and five Emmy Awards in 2023. The success story in Wales has clearly fueled their ambition to replicate the model elsewhere, and Mexico represents a strategic next step. This isn’t simply about financial investment; it’s about building a brand and leveraging the power of storytelling to connect with fans worldwide.
Expanding the Portfolio: A Global Football Network
The actor’s investment group now holds stakes in seven different football teams, demonstrating a clear strategy of diversification. According to reports, the initial foray into football ownership was sparked by the acquisition of Wrexham AFC through their company, R.R. McReynolds Company. The success at Wrexham, marked by two consecutive promotions, proved their ability to positively impact a football club’s trajectory, both on and off the field. This success has paved the way for further investments, including the recent acquisition of a portion of Club Necaxa in Mexico.
The move to invest in Club Necaxa was facilitated by actress Eva Longoria, who already held a 50% stake in the Liga MX team alongside Al Tylis and Sam Porter. Variety reported that Reynolds and McElhenney will join the club’s ownership structure, aiming to enhance its international presence. This partnership leverages Longoria’s existing connections and knowledge of the Mexican football landscape, providing a solid foundation for Reynolds and McElhenney’s involvement. The acquisition is strategically timed to capitalize on the increasing demand for football content on television and streaming platforms.
Club Necaxa: A New Chapter in Liga MX
Eva Longoria, Al Tylis, and Sam Porter initially acquired 50% of Club Necaxa in 2021, marking a significant moment for the club. The addition of Reynolds and McElhenney brings a new level of experience in management and promotion, drawing from their backgrounds in entertainment and their proven track record with Wrexham AFC. The Liga MX team hopes to benefit from the duo’s expertise in building a global fanbase and creating compelling content.
Ryan Reynolds’ visit to Mexico in 2016 to promote “Deadpool 2” demonstrated his connection with the Mexican audience, potentially foreshadowing his later investment in the country’s football scene. This familiarity with the market could prove valuable as they work to elevate Club Necaxa’s profile. The investment in Necaxa isn’t an isolated incident; it’s part of a broader pattern of Reynolds’ expanding involvement in sports ownership, as detailed in Telediario México.
The Broader Impact of Celebrity Ownership
The increasing involvement of celebrities like Ryan Reynolds in football ownership is reshaping the landscape of the sport. It brings new financial resources, marketing expertise, and global visibility to clubs that might otherwise struggle to compete. However, it also raises questions about the long-term sustainability of these investments and the potential for conflicts of interest. Reynolds and McElhenney have so far demonstrated a commitment to the communities they invest in, but the true test of their success will be their ability to build sustainable, thriving football clubs.
As Reynolds and McElhenney settle into their roles with Club Necaxa, the focus will be on improving the club’s performance on the field and expanding its reach to a wider audience. The Clausura 2026 season will be a crucial period for the team, as they gaze to build on their existing foundation and establish themselves as a force in Liga MX. The partnership with Longoria and the influx of new investment could be the catalyst for a new era of success for Club Necaxa.
The future of Reynolds’ football empire remains bright, with potential for further expansion and innovation. His journey from actor to sports owner is a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit and his passion for the game. What comes next for Reynolds and his growing portfolio of football clubs will undoubtedly be closely watched by fans and industry observers alike. Share your thoughts on this developing story in the comments below.
