Southampton F.C. have been removed from the Championship play-offs after admitting to multiple breaches of English Football League rules involving the unauthorised monitoring of rival teams’ training sessions.
An independent disciplinary commission found that the club observed training sessions of Oxford United F.C. and Ipswich Town F.C., and also filmed Middlesbrough F.C. ahead of their play-off semi-final.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the English Football League confirmed the timeline of charges, noting that Southampton were first charged on May 8, with further charges added on May 17 over additional breaches during the 2025–26 season.
The EFL said the actions violated regulations requiring clubs to act in “utmost good faith” and prohibiting any observation or recording of opposition training sessions within 72 hours of a scheduled match.
As part of the sanctions, Southampton have been expelled from the play-offs and also handed a four-point deduction for the following Championship season.
The ruling has reshaped the promotion race, with Middlesbrough reinstated into the play-offs after initially being eliminated by Southampton.
They will now face Hull City A.F.C. for a place in the Premier League play-off final at Wembley.
Middlesbrough welcomed the decision, saying it sends a strong message about sporting integrity and conduct, while confirming their focus has shifted fully to the upcoming clash with Hull City.
Southampton have, however, been given the right to appeal the decision as discussions continue between the EFL and the affected clubs over the final implications of the ruling.
