Sports
Southampton thrown out of championship play-off final as Middlesbrough face Hull
Southampton FC have been removed from Saturday’s Championship play-off final after being found guilty of spying on a training session organised by Middlesbrough FC before their semi-final clash.
The Saints had originally booked a place in the final where they were expected to face Hull City AFC for a chance to secure promotion to the Premier League next season.
However, football authorities decided to expel Southampton from the competition following the spying incident, a move that has now opened the door for Middlesbrough to return to the play-off race.
As a result, Middlesbrough will now take Southampton’s place in Saturday’s final against Hull City at Wembley Stadium, with the winning side earning promotion to the Premier League for next season.
The Saints have also been given a four-point deduction for the 2026-27 Championship campaign.
“The EFL is now in discussion with all three clubs regarding the implications of today’s decision and will make a further announcement in due course. The commission’s full written reasons will also be published in due course,” an official statement read.
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