Southampton have been expelled from the Championship play-off final following the EFL’s investigation into the club’s “Spygate” operation.

The Saints have been expelled from the Championship play-off final against Hull City by an Independent Disciplinary Commission after they “admitted to multiple breaches of EFL regulations related to the unauthorised filming of other clubs’ training.”

Middlesbrough, who lost at St Mary’s on the May 12th in extra time, are now reinstated and will face The Tigers at Wembley on May 23rd.

The decision marks one of the most dramatic disciplinary punishments in recent EFL history and throws the Championship promotion race into chaos just days before the scheduled final.

Southampton Punished Following ‘Spygate’ Investigation

Tonda Eckerts’ side will also receive a four-point deduction coming into effect at the beginning of next season.

Southampton admitted breaches of the observation of training sessions within 72 hours of a scheduled match. The club also admitted to unlawfully filming their oppositions’ training ahead of their defeat away at Oxford United on Boxing Day 2025 and their draw at home against Ipswich Town in April 2026.

The EFL confirmed that further evidence emerged during the investigation process, with Middlesbrough reportedly assisting disciplinary officials with additional material linked to the case.

League officials described the breaches as “serious violations of sporting integrity and competitive fairness.”

Southampton Expected to Appeal EFL Decision

They are expected to appeal in the ‘strongest possible terms’ with the aim of resolving this tomorrow, and the EFL have cautioned that there could be further changes to the play-off final as a result.

Despite finishing fourth on 80 points and overcoming Middlesbrough on the pitch in the play-off semi-finals, it will be The Boro contesting a spot in the Premier League against Hull City on the hallowed Wembley pitch, barring any more developments.

Southampton are understood to believe the punishment is disproportionate, while legal representatives are already preparing documentation for an emergency appeal process.

As things stand, however, Middlesbrough’s reinstatement remains official and preparations for the Wembley final are continuing as scheduled.