Wrexham AFC has announced it will take its men’s first team to Australia and New Zealand in July, with Aviation American Gin and Wrexham Lager joining the tour.

Actor Ryan Reynolds and his business partner Rob McElhenney became the owners of Wrexham AFC in 2021 and the new co-owners of Wrexham lager in November 2024. Wrexham is the oldest lager brewery in Great Britain and was launched in Australia in September 2024.

Long-term order agreements were secured with Dan Murphy’s through Hawkesbury Brewing Co.

“The cat’s out of the bag… Wrexham AFC is heading Down Under, and we’re proud to be pouring as the official beer partner,” Wrexham Lager said.

“Catch the Red Dragons live as they take to Aussie soil for the first time – and we’ll be there every step (and sip) of the way. Sun, football, and an ice-cold Wrexham Lager? See you there.”

Reynolds is the former owner of Aviation Gin, but when Diageo acquired the brand in 2020, he remained an active participant in its clever marketing.

Wrexham AFC has a huge following in Australia as a result of the award-winning behind-the-scenes Disney+ documentary Welcome to Wrexham. Australia is the third-biggest global audience for the documentary, behind the US and UK.

Putting Wrexham Lager and Aviation Gin front and centre on the Wrexham Down Under Tour is expected to reap major promotional benefits for both brands.

Wrexham matches confirmed for Australia are versus Melbourne Victory on July 11 (Marvel Stadium), Sydney FC on July 15 (Allianz Stadium), and Wellington Phoenix in New Zealand on July 19 (Sky Stadium).

The Wrexham Down Under Tour this summer follows the Club’s promotion to the Championship in the English Football League, marking a record-breaking three promotions in a row for manager Phil Parkinson’s side.

Promoted by TEG Sport, the Wrexham Down Under Tour follows on from two highly successful pre-season tours to the USA, the first in 2023 which included a clash against Manchester United followed by the Wrex Coast Tour in 2024 with the headline fixture against another Premier League side in Chelsea. 

Wrexham AFC’s tour of Australia and New Zealand will see the club take on a high calibre of competition from the A-League, offering a true test against some of the region’s most accomplished sides. 

With the A-League continuing to grow in stature and talent, these matches promise to deliver a compelling showcase of football, blending Wrexham’s global story with the skill and intensity of the elite clubs. Fans can expect fast-paced, competitive fixtures that highlight the quality and passion of both leagues.

Wrexham AFC Co-Chairmen McElhenney and Reynolds said: “From the very beginning, we wanted to help make Wrexham a globally recognised team, town and brand. We could not be more excited to bring the Red Dragons to Australia and New Zealand, and we are particularly proud that this announcement features neither a Men at Work or Hugh Jackman joke. The latter of which took maturity and tremendous restraint. We’re proud of Ryan. Of course, we make no promises going forward.”

TEG Sport Managing Director Rachael Carroll said: “Bringing Wrexham AFC to Australia and New Zealand for three exciting matches against top A-League sides is truly a one-of-a-kind event. This tour is more than just football — it’s a celebration of global sporting culture, entertainment, and fan connection. Whether you’re a die-hard football supporter or just love a great story, these matches promise unforgettable moments and fun for everyone.”

Melbourne Victory Managing Director Caroline Carnegie said: “We’re excited to test our squad against Wrexham, a club that has risen to global prominence in recent years. To play a team with such a rich history, in front of our passionate and loyal fans at Marvel Stadium, will be a fantastic experience for all football supporters.

“What makes this even more special is the alignment between our two clubs, which both Wrexham and Melbourne Victory both deeply connected to their communities and committed to growing the game.”

Sydney FC CEO Mark Aubrey said: “We’re thrilled to welcome Wrexham AFC to Sydney. Their incredible story and continued rise has captured the imagination of fans in Australia and around the world, and we are proud to be hosting this global sensation.

“Facing a team with such momentum, driven by the passion of Rob and Ryan, is a fantastic opportunity for our club and an amazing chance for our Members, and the wider football community, to witness Wrexham and their award-winning docu series first-hand.

“I’m looking forward to seeing Sydney FC and Hollywood glamour mixing in our iconic city at the magnificent Allianz Stadium.”

Wellington Phoenix General Manager David Dome said: “We’re delighted to be welcoming Wrexham to Wellington. The capital has a proud history of hosting New Zealand’s biggest football events, and this promises to be another unmissable match at Sky Stadium.

“Wrexham have had an incredible rise to the Championship and I know our players can’t wait to test themselves against the Red Dragons.

“I also look forward to catching up with Rob and Ryan over a pint of Wrexham lager at The Welsh Dragon, the only Welsh bar in the southern hemisphere!”

Sydney’s Wrexham-themed bar

York Lane, a bar in Sydney CBD, gave itself a Wrexham AFC themed makeover three years ago and serves Wrexham Lager.

The bar even features a mural of Ryan Reynolds and his business partner Rob McElhenney.

Owner Dieter Steinbusch was inspired by the hit television series, Welcome To Wrexham.