Southampton have been removed from the Championship play-offs after admitting to multiple breaches of English Football League regulations involving the unauthorised observation of rival clubs’ training sessions.
The decision followed a ruling by an independent disciplinary commission, which found that Southampton had watched training sessions of Oxford United FC and Ipswich Town FC, as well as filming Middlesbrough FC ahead of their play-off semi-final.
In a statement on Tuesday, the EFL confirmed the scope of the violations, saying: “Southampton was first charged on Friday May 8, with further charges issued on Sunday May 17 in relation to additional breaches during the 2025–26 season.”
The governing body added that the breaches related to rules requiring clubs to act in “utmost good faith” and prohibiting the observation or recording of another team’s training sessions within 72 hours of a scheduled match.
As part of the sanctions, Southampton have been expelled from the play-offs and handed a four-point deduction for the following Championship season.
The ruling has significantly altered the promotion race, with Middlesbrough reinstated into the play-offs after originally being eliminated by Southampton.
They will now face Hull City AFC for a place in the Premier League final at Wembley.
Middlesbrough welcomed the decision, stating: “We believe this sends out a clear message for the future of our game regarding sporting integrity and conduct. As a club, we are now focused on our game against Hull City at Wembley.”
Southampton have been granted the right to appeal the decision, with the EFL confirming that discussions are ongoing with all affected clubs regarding the implications of the ruling.
PUNCH Online had reported that Middlesbrough have called for Southampton to be expelled from the Championship play-off final following allegations of spying that have sparked controversy at the end of the EFL season.
=https://punchng.com/middlesbrough-want-southampton-thrown-out-of-play-off-final-over-spying/
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