Southampton FC have been expelled from the English Football League Championship play-off final after being found guilty of unauthorised filming of rival teams’ training sessions in a major scandal that has rocked English football.
The English Football League (EFL) confirmed that an Independent Disciplinary Commission ruled against Southampton following investigations into allegations of spying on opponents, including Middlesbrough FC, Oxford United FC and Ipswich Town FC during the 2025-26 season.
The controversy erupted after Middlesbrough complained about an individual linked to Southampton allegedly filming a private training session ahead of their Championship play-off semi-final clash earlier this month.
Following the investigation, Southampton were removed from the play-off final and handed a four-point deduction for the 2026-27 Championship season. Middlesbrough, who had originally lost the semi-final tie, have now been reinstated and will face Hull City AFC in the final at Wembley.
The EFL stated that Southampton admitted to breaching regulations that prohibit clubs from observing another team’s training sessions within 72 hours of a scheduled match and require clubs to act with “utmost good faith.”
Reports suggest Southampton analyst William Salt was allegedly involved in filming sessions, while head coach Tonda Eckert could also face further disciplinary action.
Southampton have announced plans to appeal the decision, describing the punishment as excessive. However, the EFL said the Championship play-off final will proceed as scheduled unless the appeal changes the ruling.
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