Southampton expelled from play-offs after admitting trio of spying offences

By Jamie Gardner and Simon Peach, Press Association

Southampton have been expelled from the Championship play-offs after admitting to spying on opponents on three occasions this season, including play-off opponents Middlesbrough earlier this month.

The decision by an independent commission denies Saints a shot at Premier League promotion, estimated to be worth at least £200 million, unless the Hampshire club can overturn the sanction on appeal.

The club have also been docked four points for next season, with Middlesbrough reinstated to the play-offs and set to take Southampton’s place in Saturday’s final against Hull. Southampton have already confirmed to the Press Association their intention to appeal.

The ‘Spygate’ scandal began when Middlesbrough reported to the EFL that a member of Southampton staff had observed their training session on May 7, two days before the play-off semi-final first leg at the Riverside Stadium, in breach of league rules. The EFL issued charges against Southampton the following day.

The EFL confirmed on Tuesday that further charges were laid last Sunday – May 17th. The EFL said Southampton had admitted observing training sessions held by Oxford in December – less than a month after current head coach Tonda Eckert took charge – and by Ipswich in April, in addition to the Middlesbrough session earlier this month.

Southampton’s appeal will be heard on Wednesday, which means the date and make-up of the play-off final is still subject to change.

A statement from MFC:

Middlesbrough Football Club welcomes the outcome of today’s Disciplinary Commission hearing.

We believe this sends out a clear message for the future of our game regarding sporting integrity and conduct.

As a club, we are now focused on our game against… pic.twitter.com/6cjskjZKDY

— Middlesbrough FC (@Boro) May 19, 2026

Despite that, Middlesbrough have already confirmed that ticket information would be announced to their fans shortly.

The Teessiders had last week called for Southampton to be thrown out, and issued a statement on Tuesday evening welcoming the commission’s decision, adding: “We believe this sends out a clear message for the future of our game regarding sporting integrity and conduct.

“As a club, we are now focused on our game against Hull City at Wembley on Saturday.”