EFL Expels Southampton From Championship Playoffs for Training-Spy Breaches

Overview

• An independent EFL panel removed Southampton from the playoffs after the club admitted filming opponents' training sessions in violation of league rules.
• Middlesbrough, which lost to Southampton in the semifinal, has been restored to the final against Hull City at Wembley on May 23.
• Southampton can appeal the decision, and the outcome could alter Saturday's fixture and ticketing plans.
• The club also received a four-point deduction for the 2026–27 season and a formal reprimand tied to all charges.
• EFL filings say breaches also related to games with Oxford United in December 2025 and Ipswich Town in April 2026 under rules that ban observing a rival's training within 72 hours and require maximum good faith.