EFL Removes Southampton, Hands Spot to Middlesbrough vs Hull
Southampton have been removed from the Championship play-offs and given a four-point deduction after an EFL investigation found them guilty of spying on Middlesbrough. Middlesbrough will now face Hull for promotion.
Middlesbrough were reinstated to the Championship play-offs after the EFL expelled Southampton for spying. The EFL also delayed the final while investigating the incident...
Southampton have been removed from the Championship play-offs after being caught spying on semi-final opponents Middlesbrough. Middlesbrough will now face Hull for a place in the Premier League.
A member of Southampton’s staff was seen filming one of Middlesbrough’s training sessions ahead of the play-off semi-final between the two sides. Southampton went on to win that tie.
Shortly before the match, the EFL had already opened an investigation into the allegations and charged Southampton with spying. The league said there was a possibility the final might not go ahead as planned while the inquiry continued. Middlesbrough also formally requested that Southampton be expelled.
At a hearing on Tuesday, Middlesbrough’s request was granted. The EFL expelled Southampton from the play-offs and issued a four-point deduction to apply next season.
“An Independent Disciplinary Commission has today expelled Southampton from the Sky Bet Championship Play-Offs after the Club admitted to multiple breaches of EFL Regulations related to the unauthorised filming of other Clubs’ training,” a statement from the league's governing body read.
"In addition, the Club has received a four-point deduction that will be applied to the 2026/27 Championship table.”
An Independent Disciplinary Commission has today expelled Southampton from the Sky Bet Championship Play-Offs after the Club admitted to multiple breaches of EFL Regulations related to the unauthorised filming of other Clubs’ training.
— EFL Communications (@EFL_Comms) May 19, 2026
In addition, the Club has received a… pic.twitter.com/VxyXFk48BA
“The effect of today’s order is that Middlesbrough are reinstated into the 2026 Play-Offs and will proceed to the Play-Off Final against Hull City. The final remains scheduled for Saturday 23 May, with the kick-off time to be confirmed,” according to the statement.
More to follow...
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