The dispute between broadcaster Jeff Stelling and Hartlepool United has intensified, leading the club's chair, Raj Singh, to call for other National League clubs to ban Stelling from their boardrooms. This request comes after Stelling resigned as honorary president of Hartlepool in May, protesting Singh's handling of negotiations regarding the club's sale. Singh had put the club on the market over two years prior.
In a letter sent last week to other National League clubs, Singh wrote, "As Chairman of Hartlepool United Football Club I would kindly and considerately ask that Mr Stelling is therefore not provided with official HUFC dignitary spaces in your Board Room, or equivalent, for any Hartlepool United fixture at your home ground". He further requested that if Stelling independently attends any Hartlepool United fixture at their home ground, that they "consider to seat Mr Stelling separately to any HUFC dignitaries or staff". This appears to be a retaliatory measure to prevent Stelling from receiving hospitality at Hartlepool's away matches.
Stelling's resignation stemmed from his discontent with the stalled takeover of the club by a consortium led by local businesswoman Shirley Hammond. Stelling stated that he felt it was the best way to protest against the treatment of the party trying to take control of the club. He also expressed concern for the supporters, who he felt were in an "intolerable position" due to a perceived threat to the club's future if they did not support the current owner. Stelling, a shareholder, said he was not consulted about the takeover.
Hartlepool United was put up for sale by Raj Singh in April 2023. In March 2025, Singh resigned as chairman amidst abuse from fans, promising to fund the club until the end of the season. A club statement revealed that takeover talks had stalled and that board members requested Singh commit to further funding, which is impacting planning for the next season. Singh suggested that supporters should vote on whether to accept his assistance, a move that has been criticized as an attempt to portray himself as a savior. The club also stated that without external funding, the club could fall behind, potentially threatening its existence.
