Phil Kirk: Owner of League Two Club Chesterfield Passes Away at 59 After Stuggle With Sickness
- Football mourns the painful loss of a respected club owner who passed away following courageous battle with illness
- His club has offered a heartfelt tribute while clubs across the English Football League send touching messages of condolence
- Kirk's passing leaves a significant gap in the EFL community, reflecting the profound impact of his dedication and sacrifices
Chesterfield Football Club is deeply saddened to announce the passing of club owner Phil Kirk at the age of 59 on Monday, August 25.
According to the Mail Online, Kirk, who invested in Chesterfield Football Club alongside his brother and co-owner Ashley in 2022, was diagnosed with inoperable cancer in March. He entered palliative care earlier this month.
Source: Twitter
According to Sports Mole, under Phil’s leadership, the club celebrated a memorable return to the English Football League (EFL) in 2024 and reached the Sky Bet League Two Play-Offs in the following season, achievements that reflect his dedication and love for the club.
The EFL paid tribute to Phil Kirk following news of his passing. The league acknowledged his significant role in Chesterfield Football Club’s recent success, highlighting the club’s return to the English Footballl League in 2024 and their appearance in the League Two Play-Offs last season.
The EFL also extended its deepest sympathies to Kirk’s family, friends, and everyone associated with Chesterfield during this difficult time, as the year 2025 has proven to be tragic for the footballing world.
Clubs pay emotional tribute to Phil Kirk
Following the heartbreaking news of his passing, EFL clubs have shared heartfelt messages, reflecting the deep admiration and respect he earned throughout the footballing world.
Bolton Wanderers wrote:
''Sending deep condolences to Phil’s family, friends and everyone at Chesterfield Football Club after this very sad news.''
Bradford City commented:
''Our thoughts and prayers are with Phil’s family and friends, and everyone at Chesterfield Football Club, at this difficult time.''
Blackpool FC said:
''We’re so sorry to hear of this tragic news. Our thoughts go out to all of Phil’s loved ones and everyone associated with Chesterfield FC.''
Gillingham FC also commented:
''Such sad news. The thoughts of everybody at Gillingham Football Club are with Phil's family, friends, loved ones, and everyone associated with Chesterfield FC at this very difficult time.''
Oxford United reacted:
''Awful news. Everyone at Oxford United is saddened by this news and our thoughts are with Phil's family, friends, loved ones, and everyone at Chesterfield Football Club''
Source: Twitter
Morecambe FC said:
''On behalf of everyone at Morecambe FC, we send our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and all connected with Chesterfield FC during this difficult time''
Oldham Athletic commented:
''As a club, we send our deepest condolences to Phil’s family, loved ones and everyone connected to Chesterfield following this very sad news..''
Millwall FC wrote:
''Millwall Football Club extends its heartfelt condolences and support to Phil’s family, friends, and everyone at Chesterfield FC during this deeply sad time. Rest in peace, Phil.'
Southend United FC reacted:
''We’re so sorry to hear this awful news. The thoughts of everyone at Southend United are with Phil’s family, friends, and all associated with Chesterfield FC at this difficult time.''
Wrexham also wrote:
''We’re truly sorry to hear this sad news. The thoughts of all at Wrexham AFC are with Phil’s family, friends and everybody associated with Chesterfield FC.''
Plymouth Argyle shared:
''Sending our love and support to Phil’s family, friends, and everyone at Chesterfield. RIP, Phil.''
Source: Getty Images
Sena Dorho's death
YEN.com.gh earlier reported on the tragic passing of Ghanaian football club Adehyea FC's owner Sena Dorho in July of this year.
The ambitious football administrator was determined to guide his team to the Ghana Premier League, but his journey was tragically cut short, joining a growing list of football figures lost this year.
Source: YEN.com.gh
