Rob Smethurst is temporarily stood down as Macclesfield chairman by the club board, as mentioned in a statement issued.
The National League North side’s board of directors said they are investigating ‘unsettling’ allegations about him, with no further details provided.
Rob Smethurst has since took to social media site Facebook, making his thoughts known with Macclesfield supporters concerned by the situation unfolding.
Macclesfield FC Board of Directors have issued the below statement regarding the position of Chairman Robert Smethurst
— Macclesfield FC (@thesilkmen) June 6, 2026
A statement on the club’s website read: “Macclesfield FC are aware of reports circulating regarding the position of Robert Smethurst within the Football Club.
“In light of these, the Board of Directors can confirm that Mr Smethurst has temporarily been relieved of all duties associated with the Football Club whilst legal guidance is sought.
“With this in mind, it would be improper to divulge any further information at this time.
“Whereas we can completely and unequivocally understand that these reports will be unsettling, the Board of Directors would like to assure everyone of their belief that they are wholeheartedly acting within the best interests of the Football Club and in a bid to safeguard its continued success.
“We would politely ask everyone not to engage in speculation at this time, and further comment will be made as soon as we are able to.”
Robert Smethurst posted to ‘The Star Lane End – Unofficial Macclesfield FC Supporters Page’ on Facebook as the statement emerged, saying: “Literally WTF”, before replying to a fan’s comment “Gutted, can’t actually believe what’s happening everything I have done 😢”
A screenshot emerged in the group, posted by Westley Macpherson Tyrie, with Rob alleged to have replied “I want it back”. And when the fan messaged “hope you get it back mate, hopefully the fans boycott in support of you”, Rob allegedly said “Hope so all the help need”.
Michael John Smethurst commented: “This is terrible my son has given his all to help Macclesfield FC and the community an absolute disgrace by some of the shareholders, feel devastated for my son.”
Local businessman Robert Smethurst purchased the assets of Macclesfield Town in October 2020, and established Macclesfield FC, with the club them entered into the North West Counties Football League for the 2021–22 season.
The Silkmen have since climbed the pyramid, with three promotions in five seasons, their first season in the National League North finishing 4th with 79 points from 46 games played, beat Chester 2-1 in the playoff eliminator, but lost 3-1 to Kidderminster in the playoff semi final.
Social media users have since reacted as Rob Smethurst is temporarily stood down as Macclesfield chairman by the club board…
Linda Pearson: Michael John Smethurst, as fans we are devastated Rob is Macc FC without him it’s not the same club.. I would not have bought session ticket knowing this…
@daniel14f1: I want a refund
@NLNCentral: Well that’s a spanner in the works for Macclesfield never a normal day in the world of non-league
James Barber-Chadwick: A vague statement that offers no comfort to anyone. Robert Smethurst is the main reason we have a football club, and if the alleged reasons for removal are true, then I think I speak for most of the fanbase when I say it won’t be accepted. A football club isn’t something to use as a tool to get at someone. For many of the fans, it’s a lifeline. Their main passion. For the staff and players, it’s their livelihoods.
@RyanHenson98: You need to be careful because Macclesfield fans have been through enough sh*t in the last 10 years, so our patience have worn thin. In our eyes there is only one owner and that is Robert Smethurst.
Taylor Beardmore: Someone’s making a massive mistake. Macc fans fought for that club. Rob built it back up from the ashes. If you think us fans are just going to let this happen, you’ve got another thing coming. Watch this space
@el_thomason: Never a dull moment 🙄
Ann-Marie Carey: Proactive communication is key to rebuilding trust with the fans and the community yet once again you are being reactive. Sort it out.
Doug Pickford: To issue a statement as this is incredibly naive and can only be described as deliberately upsetting for fans… and especially Rob. Everyone concerned about, and with, the club – especially Rob – deserves more respect. This lacks credulity and does not show compassion. More information is required.
David Chambers: Can we not have a normal season?
Daniel Jackson: I’ve just paid for a ST. I’ve been robbed if all this s**t is true.
Steven Bayman: This is an absolute joke. If he isnt reinstated, will you be offering refunds on season tickets. I for one wouldn’t of bought one knowing this. Oh and the free tickets you offered me for preseason you can stick them up your arse as well
Ryan Swindells: Hopefully someone at the club could give us more information ASAP
Jim Rowley: Disgusting!! Rob is the reason we still have a club!! What a terribly vague and unsettling statement!
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