Wrexham AFC’s recent trajectory has earned recognition far beyond the domestic game, with CEO Michael Williamson named Football Industry Leader of the Year at the inaugural Global Football Industry Awards.
Peter Crouch and Jamie Carragher
The ceremony, held in London and with Peter Crouch as the host, marked the first worldwide event dedicated to acknowledging the individuals whose work powers modern football. Supported by partners Panini, WSC Sports, SHEIN and SportsRadar, the awards highlighted visionaries, innovators and the many people behind the scenes who keep the sport progressing.
Event director Carmen Alexander captured the purpose of the occasion, noting: “The response from across the football world has been extraordinary. From global brands to volunteer-led grassroots programmes, every winner contributes to the sport’s future. We are committed to building this into a global benchmark for excellence in football.”
Significant Development
For Williamson, the accolade arrives just over a year after he joined Wrexham in the summer of 2024. In the 18 months since, the Club has undergone a period of significant development on and off the pitch. The standout achievement was securing a third successive promotion. This was a landmark moment that returned Wrexham to the Sky Bet Championship for the first time since 1978.
Alongside the team’s competitive progress, Williamson has overseen a range of major structural projects. The Club established its new Academy base at Darland High School and also secured an EFL Academy Category 3 licence. Both of these strengthened the development pathway for emerging players. Staffing levels have also expanded across multiple departments. The Club continues to build the organisational foundations needed to support long-term ambition.
The Rock
Growth has extended into the Women and Girls’ programme, with Wrexham purchasing The Rock as its permanent home. This step is significant in consolidating facilities and supporting future expansion. The Club also completed its first tour of Australia and New Zealand last summer. The trip offered a new opportunity to engage with international supporters and deepen Wrexham’s global presence.
One of the most symbolic areas of progress has been the Kop Development. Ground is now officially broken. Planning permission has also been submitted for an extra 2,250 seats. This signals clear progress on a project long anticipated by supporters.
“Amazing Journey”
Reflecting on the award, Williamson emphasised the broader effort behind Wrexham’s momentum. “I am incredibly honoured to have been named the Football Industry Leader of the Year at the Global Football Industry Awards in my first full season as CEO of Wrexham AFC,” he said. “This is really an award for the entire Club. It is for every player, every member of the coaching and medical team, all staff. Above all, it is for all the supporters who saw us through a year of highs and lows last season. Most of all, it is an award for the entire community as we continue on this amazing journey together.”
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