Southampton has been disqualified from the Championship play-off final after admitting to unauthorized spying on other clubs, resulting in a four-point deduction for the 2026-27 season. Middlesbrough, which lost in the semi-finals, will face Hull City in the final at Wembley on May 23. The English Football League (EFL) revealed Southampton violated rules regarding filming other clubs’ training within 72 hours of a match, specifically against Oxford United, Ipswich Town, and Middlesbrough.
Middlesbrough welcomed the EFL’s decision, emphasizing the importance of sporting integrity. They provided photographic evidence of a Southampton analyst, William Salt, allegedly spying on their training. The play-off final winner will secure a place in the Premier League, which brings substantial financial rewards, including a minimum of £200 million over three years.
Southampton is appealing the decision, while Hull’s head coach expressed concerns about delays impacting their preparations. Southampton finished the league season in fourth place, level on points with Middlesbrough but ahead of Hull.
Source link
