Southampton FC has been expelled from the Championship playoff final after admitting to multiple breaches of English Football League regulations. The club was found guilty of spying on opponents through the unauthorized filming of training sessions during the 2025-26 season.
An independent disciplinary commission handed down the punishment, which includes the club's expulsion from the playoffs and a four-point deduction. The EFL stated that Southampton admitted to breaches involving three different clubs: Oxford United in December 2025, Ipswich Town in April 2026, and Middlesbrough in May 2026.
As a result of the ruling, Southampton's hopes for Premier League promotion have been dashed. Middlesbrough has been reinstated to take their place in the playoff final, where they will now face Hull to compete for a place in the Premier League.