Chesterfield Football Club owner Phil Kirk has died at the age of 59 following a battle with cancer. The League Two club announced the tragic news on Monday morning, describing it as the loss of a transformative leader who had revitalised the team's fortunes.
Kirk was diagnosed with incurable cancer in March and had entered palliative care earlier this month after unsuccessful treatment. The businessman had invested in Chesterfield alongside his brother and co-owner Ashley in 2022, beginning a remarkable turnaround for the struggling club.
Remarkable club transformation
Under Kirk's stewardship, Chesterfield achieved promotion back to the English Football League in 2024, marking their return to professional football. The team then reached the League Two Play-Offs last season and currently sits in second place in the division.
The English Football League paid tribute to Kirk's achievements. "Under his stewardship, Chesterfield achieved promotion back to the EFL in 2024, marking a proud return to the EFL, before reaching the Sky Bet League Two Play-Offs last season," the EFL stated. "The EFL extends its deepest sympathies to Phil's family, friends, and everyone connected with Chesterfield Football Club at this difficult time."
Community impact
Local MP Toby Perkins described Kirk as someone who had "transformed the prospects for Chesterfield FC" in a social media tribute. "Whilst the news had been expected, it still comes as a huge shock that a man who has transformed the prospects for Chesterfield FC should be snatched away from his family, friends and all who loved him so prematurely," Perkins said.
Chesterfield supporters have flooded social media with tributes acknowledging Kirk's impact on the club. One fan wrote: "Thanks to Phil and Ashley Kirk, I'll be watching them start from second place in League Two, and looking upwards. I hope it comforts the Kirk family to know that every Chesterfield fan shares a version of their loss."
Sources used: "nottinghampost.com", "dailymail", "mirror" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
