Wrexham are among four EFL clubs to enter a new domestic cup tournament that would give them access to European competition under the Welsh banner for the first time in three decades.
The proposal, subject to FA approval, would see Cardiff, Swansea, Newport and Phil Parkinson’s League One side compete in a revamped 16-team Welsh League Cup alongside the 12 JD Cymru Premier clubs.
The Football Association of Wales says the winner of the competition will go through to the qualifying rounds of a UEFA club competition.
Wrexham were the last Welsh EFL club to qualify for Europe via a domestic route – playing in the 1995-96 Cup Winners’ Cup – although Swansea played in the Europa League under an English flag after winning the EFL Cup in 2013.
The FAW says Cardiff, Newport, Swansea and Wrexham have agreed to exempt any profits derived from representing Wales in Europe from financial regulations in the EFL or English Premier League.
FAW chief executive Noel Mooney said: “This will be a game-changer for the development of the game as we work to unlock the full potential of Welsh football.
“It will unite Welsh football, improve the game at all levels and deliver significant social benefits across Wales by making our clubs and communities more sustainable.
“It will generate significant additional revenue through a revamped Welsh League Cup competition with expanded participation of the four top-tier Welsh clubs participating in the English football pyramid.
Wrexham are seeking promotion from League One
“This will be rolled out across the JD Cymru Premier, Genero Adran Premier (Wales’ top women’s league) and grassroots facilities across the country.
“It also represents the spirit of cooperation and collaboration between football associations across the UK ahead of the home nations’ joint co-hosting of Euro 2028.”
The FAW believes the revamped Welsh League Cup, which will be played in a four-round knockout format, could generate an extra £3m a season.
Hollywood stars Rob McElhenney (left) and Ryan Reynolds own Wrexham
A potential winner from the EFL could boost Wales’ UEFA club coefficients, with the country currently ranked among the lowest in Europe.
The FAW say the plan has also been discussed with UEFA, the Secretary of State for Wales and the Welsh Government and, pending final approval, the competition will start next season.
