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Tom Hamilton, Senior Writer
Plans have been revealed for a revamped Welsh League Cup that could propel Wrexham into Europe if approved by the Football Association (FA).
The plan was announced by the Football Association of Wales (FAW), which hopes the restarted competition could bring a £3 million ($3.6 million) windfall to the club game while also providing a qualification route for the competition’s winners . Round of UEFA club competitions.
Under the proposals, Cardiff City, Swansea City, Newport County and Wrexham would compete in the 16-team Welsh League Cup along with 12 JD Cymru Premier clubs. The league will expand to 16 teams in 2026-27.
A source told ESPN that Wrexham support the plan as long as they receive FA approval and competition for the tournament does not affect their participation in the English Football League (EFL).
The FA is discussing the proposed competition with stakeholders, sources told ESPN. If plans are approved, competitions will begin next season.
FAW chief executive Noel Mooney said: “This will be a game-changer for game development as we work to unlock the full potential of Welsh football.” “This will unify Welsh football, improve the game at all levels and deliver meaningful social benefits across Wales, making our clubs and communities more sustainable.
“The revamped Welsh League Cup competition, along with increased participation from the top four Welsh clubs in the English football pyramid, will generate significant additional revenue.
“This will be rolled out across the JD Cymru Premier, Genero Adran Premier (Wales’ top women’s league) and grassroots establishments across the country.
“This also represents the spirit of cooperation and collaboration between football associations across England as we look ahead to jointly hosting Euro 2028.”
This competition is a key cornerstone of FAW’s Prosiect (Project) Cymru. They are trying to improve the UEFA coefficient to get a bigger cut from UEFA’s financial distribution.
The Welsh clubs have agreed that any profits generated from the competition will not contribute to or influence the financial regulations of the EFL or the Premier League.
The plan has also been discussed with UEFA, the Secretary of State for Wales and the Welsh Government, but is dependent on FA approval.
The next step for Swansea, Cardiff, Newport and Wrexham will be to consult with their respective supporters groups.
