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 BBC News reporting that it comes following his arrest on suspicion of a coercive control offence.
After being asked for a comment by the BBC, Smethhurst confirmed he was arrested and said the allegations against him had been “an absolute load of rubbish”.
He added: “I’m absolutely gutted, devastated. I want my club back.
“I love the people that have supported me. All I can ask is that they support me through this time.
“I hope the whole of Macclesfield gets behind me and we pull together and put me back into a position where I feel that I actually belong.”
Cheshire Constanbulary said: “On Tuesday 19 May a 48-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of controlling and coercive behaviour in Wilmslow.
“He has since been bailed pending further enquiries.”
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”.
Sarah Mannion wrote via Facebook: As the mum of Rob Smethurst I can honestly say, my son has put his heart and soul and his money into this club. It’s been his life and passion for the past six years. His aim was purely to give the community it’s club back. I have been his biggest cheerleader and attended almost every home game by his side.
“I hate airing family laundry in public but I cannot stand by and watch “a woman scorned” destroy everything he’s built up for Macclesfield FC and his International Football Club. When his marriage ended on February 1st this year, she promised she would destroy him. I thought on a personal level, which is bad enough, she had him arrested for nonsense, which was all untrue. He’s been through hell with constant bullying.
“She’s sided with another shareholder, to get him out of what literally makes his heart beat, Macclesfield FC. Marriages end sadly, but to start accusing him of not running the club well, is beyond me. She’s never had a working role at the club. He gave her shares, being his wife.
“Sadly, she has now used those shares against him to get him out….Can you also believe, I received an official email last night stopping me and my other son John from entering the club!! I feel I owe you all an explanation, you’ve been the best Macc fans, thanks for your support over the last six years. ( xx Thanks to all the wonderful friends/fans l’ve made as a Macc fan. xx”
The 48 year old local businessman 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.
