Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman shocked as Wrexham draw Chelsea in FA Cup
BBC World
February 17, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman were left stunned as their football club, Wrexham, was drawn against Premier League giants Chelsea in the FA Cup. The pair, who co-own Wrexham AFC, reacted with disbelief as the draw revealed that Wrexham would host Chelsea at their Racecourse Ground on March 7. Reynolds’ unfiltered reaction, captured on Instagram, quickly went viral, showcasing the excitement and surprise of the moment.
The matchup is significant for Wrexham, a non-league club that has gained global attention since Reynolds and Rob Mac took over in a £2m takeover in 2021. The club’s recent success includes reaching the fourth round of the FA Cup in both 2022-23 and 2023-24, marking their best performance in decades. Facing Chelsea at home is an historic opportunity for Wrexham to challenge a top-tier team on the same stage as the Premier League giants.
The FA Cup’s random draw system has always added unpredictability, but this particular matchup has sparked widespread excitement among fans. Wrexham supporters are confident in their team’s ability to compete with Chelsea, with one fan commenting, “OMG Wrexham is definitely capable of beating any Premier League team.” The clash will not only be a test of skill but also a chance for Wrexham to further cement its place in football history.
Reynolds and Jackman’s viral reactions have added another layer of intrigue to the story. Their enthusiasm highlights the cultural impact of celebrity involvement in sports, particularly in smaller clubs like Wrexham. The pair’s support has already brought global recognition to Wrexham, and this high-profile match against Chelsea is expected to amplify their visibility further.
For readers interested in global culture and sports, this story underscores the unique intersection of football, fame, and underdog narratives.
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Originally published on BBC World on 2/17/2026