Both clubs have majority US ownership. Birmingham City was acquired by a US-based group in July of last year, with NFL legend Tom Brady joining as a minority investor a month later. Wrexham is owned by actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, who have played active roles in the club’s revival, achieving back-to-back promotions while documenting their journey in Disney+ documentaries to enhance their reputation in the US.
Despite the EFL’s refusal to allow the game to be played in the US, the league is keen on building a presence across the Atlantic. A new TV deal will increase their revenues by 40% by streaming games in the US. Birmingham’s unsuccessful bid may pave the way for larger ambitions, as earlier this year, there were discussions about the possibility of a Premier League match taking place in America due to the league’s growing popularity. Many English teams already attract large crowds during their pre-season tours in the US.