Mock up of how the Wrexham shirts might look with Nex logo.
Wrexham AFC supporters will see a new name on the club’s shirts during the 2026/27 Championship season after Nex Playground became the club’s new sleeve sponsor. The partnership was announced on June 16 and will bring the family-focused gaming company to the Racecourse Ground through a range of supporter and community initiatives.
The deal is one of the first things supporters noticed following the sponsorship announcement. While many fans will already be familiar with major football sponsors, Nex Playground is a new name for much of the UK football audience.
That makes one question particularly relevant. Who exactly are Nex Playground, and why have they chosen Wrexham as part of their international expansion plans?
The answer reveals a company whose ambitions closely align with the community-focused approach Wrexham have developed during their rise under Phil Parkinson, Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney.
What is Nex Playground?
Nex Playground is an active gaming system designed to get families moving together rather than sitting with traditional controllers.
According to Nex Playground, the device uses a camera-based motion tracking system that allows players to control games using body movement. It connects directly to a television, requires no controllers and supports up to four players.
The company describes itself as being focused on helping families connect through active play. Its official mission statement is simple: “We help families connect and get moving together.”
The platform features a growing library of family-friendly games, sports challenges, fitness activities and interactive experiences featuring brands including Bluey, Peppa Pig, Barbie, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and Fruit Ninja.
Nex is launching in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland on June 22, with the console priced at £269 and available through major retailers.
Why have Nex partnered with Wrexham AFC?
The partnership is part of Nex’s first major push into the UK market.
Wrexham’s international profile made the club an attractive partner. The continued success of Welcome to Wrexham and the club’s rise into the Championship have given Wrexham global visibility that extends well beyond football.
Tom Kang, president and head of international at Nex, explained the thinking behind the partnership.
“Wrexham AFC and Nex are both writing exciting new chapters in our respective journeys, driven by a shared commitment to community and connection.”
Kang added that Nex wanted to work with a club that had inspired supporters around the world while remaining connected to local families and communities, according to Business Wire.
What will Wrexham supporters see?
The most obvious change will be Nex branding on Wrexham’s shirt sleeves throughout the 2026/27 season.
The partnership extends well beyond kit sponsorship. Plans include supporter activations at the Racecourse Ground, including a dedicated Nex Game Zone and activities connected to the club’s developing new Kop Stand.
The agreement also includes youth-focused initiatives involving the Wrexham AFC Foundation and Academy, while activations are planned during the club’s summer tour.
Why the partnership matters
For Wrexham, the deal is another example of the type of international brands now seeking a connection with the club.
For Nex, the partnership provides a high-profile platform as it launches in the UK and Ireland. For supporters, it means a sponsorship that appears designed to offer more than simple shirt branding.
Many Wrexham fans may not have heard of Nex Playground before this month. By the time the Championship season is underway, that is likely to have changed as the company’s activations, community projects and matchday presence become part of the wider Wrexham experience.
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