Wrexham are among four EFL clubs set to take part in a new domestic cup tournament which would see them advance to European competition under the Welsh flag for the first time in three decades.
The proposal, subject to FA approval, would see Cardiff, Swansea, Newport and Phil Parkinson’s League One take part in a revamped 16-team Welsh League Cup alongside the 12 JD Cymru Premier clubs.
The Welsh Football Association said the winner of the competition would advance to the qualifying rounds of a UEFA club competition.
Wrexham were the last Welsh EFL club to qualify for Europe through a domestic route – participating in the 1995-96 Cup Winners’ Cup – although Swansea played in the Europa League under an English banner after won the EFL Cup in 2013.
The FAW says Cardiff, Newport, Swansea and Wrexham have agreed to exclude any profits from Wales’ representation in Europe from the financial regulations of 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.
“This will unify Welsh football, improve the game at all levels and deliver significant societal benefits across Wales, making our clubs and communities more sustainable.
“This will generate significant additional revenue through a revamped Welsh League Cup competition with expanded participation from the four highest-ranked Welsh clubs competing in the English football pyramid.
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“This will be distributed 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 collaboration and co-operation between the UK’s football associations as we approach the home countries’ joint hosting of Euro 2028.”
The FAW estimates that the new Welsh League Cup, which will be played in a four-round knockout competition format, could generate an additional £3 million per season.
Hollywood stars Rob McElhenney (left) and Ryan Reynolds own Wrexham
A potential EFL winner could boost Wales’ UEFA club coefficients, with the country currently ranked among the lowest in Europe.
The FAW says the plan has also been discussed with UEFA, the Secretary of State for Wales and the Welsh Government and that, pending final approval, the competition would begin next season.
