Drunken Millionaire Buys, Forgets Football Club Acquisition
Rob Smethurst, an entrepreneur from England, made headlines after an impulsive decision during a drunken bender led to the acquisition of his local football club, Macclesfield Town. This incident occurred in October 2020, when Smethurst was informed by a friend that the struggling club was for sale. Macclesfield Town had recently faced liquidation and was available for purchase online, including its aged 4,000-seat stadium.
An Unforgettable Purchase
Under the influence of alcohol, Smethurst purchased the club without memory of the act. “I was drinking myself into oblivion, and I can’t remember buying it,” he admitted. The club, located in Macclesfield, a commuter town near Manchester, had entered administration due to a significant unpaid tax bill just before the season began.
Reviving Macclesfield FC
From the ashes of the old club, Macclesfield FC was established a year later, preserving the original colors, fan base, and home ground. Currently, the club competes in the sixth tier of English football and recently achieved a historic upset by defeating Premier League club Crystal Palace in January. This match is regarded as one of the greatest upsets in football history.
Smethurst’s Journey
At the time of the purchase, Smethurst, then 46, was at a personal low. He had previously found success as a used car salesman and later developed a vehicle transport app. After selling the app in 2017 for over $20 million, Smethurst struggled to find purpose and began drinking heavily. However, acquiring his local team reinvigorated his life and provided a newfound sense of direction. “It’s turned out to be probably the best move I’ve done,” he reflected.
Historic Victory
Macclesfield FC’s victory over Crystal Palace was not only significant for the team but also highlighted the disparity between them and their opponents. The highest-paid player at Macclesfield earns £25,000 per year and maintains a regular job, while Crystal Palace has a player roster valued at around £400 million.
- Match Date: January 2023
- Result: Macclesfield FC 2 – 1 Crystal Palace
- Location: Moss Rose Stadium, Macclesfield
The Community Impact
The win provided a massive morale boost to local residents, with fans expressing that the achievement brought the community together during challenging times. “This has lifted everyone’s spirits,” said a dedicated supporter.
What’s Next for Macclesfield FC?
Macclesfield FC’s next challenge is against another Premier League side, Brentford, scheduled for Monday night. With home field advantage again, fans are hopeful for another miraculous outcome. For Smethurst, the journey has already been fulfilling. “We’ve accomplished it,” he concluded. “It could be just what dreams are made of.”
