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An Independent Disciplinary Commission has expelled Southampton FC from the Sky Bet Championship Play-Offs after the Club admitted to multiple breaches of EFL Regulations concerning the unauthorised filming of rival Clubs’ training sessions.
In addition to the expulsion, Southampton has been handed a four-point deduction to be applied at the start of the 2026/27 Championship season, along with a formal reprimand relating to all charges brought against the Club.
As a result of the ruling, Middlesbrough FC have been reinstated into the 2026 Play-Offs and will now face Hull City AFC in the Play-Off Final. The match remains scheduled for Saturday, May 23.
Southampton was initially charged on Friday, May 8, before further allegations were issued on Sunday, May 17 following the discovery of additional breaches during the 2025/26 campaign. These additional matters emerged after the original proceedings involving Middlesbrough had commenced.
The Club admitted to violating regulations requiring Clubs to act with the utmost good faith, as well as rules prohibiting the observation of another Club’s training sessions within 72 hours of a scheduled fixture. The breaches related to matches against Oxford United FC in December 2025, Ipswich Town FC in April 2026, and Middlesbrough in May 2026.
Southampton retains the right to appeal the Commission’s decision under EFL Regulations.
Discussions are ongoing to determine any appeal by Wednesday, May 20. Depending on the outcome, Saturday’s fixture could still be subject to change.
The EFL is currently in discussions with all three Clubs regarding the implications of the ruling and will issue a further update in due course. The Commission’s full written reasons for the decision will also be published at a later date.
