Southampton excluded from Championship play-off final over spying case, Middlesbrough reinstated

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·20 May 2026

Southampton excluded from Championship play-off final over spying case, Middlesbrough reinstated

Southampton have been excluded from the Championship play-off final after an independent commission found them guilty in a spying case involving Middlesbrough. According to L'Équipe, the decision came on Tuesday.

Middlesbrough, who were beaten by the Saints in the semi-final, have been reinstated and will face Hull City at Wembley on Saturday.

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The semi-final finished 0-0 in the first leg, then Southampton won 2-1 after extra time in the return.

The case centred on claims that Southampton observed and recorded a Middlesbrough training session before the two-legged tie. Middlesbrough said the conduct undermined sporting integrity and fair play.

Southampton have also been docked four points for next season. The club can still appeal, and the commission has until Wednesday to take any appeal into account.

Source: L'Équipe