Southampton expelled from Championship play-offs after 'Spygate' scandal | OneFootball

Southampton have been expelled from the Championship play-offs after admitting to spying on rival clubs during the season, in one of the most extraordinary scandals English football has seen in recent years.

The EFL confirmed on Tuesday that Southampton breached regulations by filming training sessions involving Oxford United, Ipswich Town and Middlesbrough within 72 hours of scheduled matches.

The controversy, already being dubbed “Spygate”, has resulted in Saints being removed from the play-offs and handed a four-point deduction for the 2026/27 Championship season.

As a result, Boro - beaten by Southampton in the semi-finals - have now been reinstated and will face Hull City at Wembley on Saturday for a place in the Premier League.

Southampton admitted to multiple breaches of EFL regulations, although the club are expected to appeal the punishment, arguing that the sanctions are disproportionate. The EFL confirmed discussions are ongoing and warned there could yet be further changes to Saturday’s fixture depending on the outcome of any appeal.

The scandal means Southampton will miss out on the richest match in football, with promotion to the Premier League worth at least £110 million in broadcast revenue alone.

An Independent Disciplinary Commission has today expelled Southampton from the Sky Bet Championship Play-Offs after the Club admitted to multiple breaches of EFL Regulations related to the unauthorised filming of other Clubs’ training.

In addition, the Club has received a… pic.twitter.com/VxyXFk48BA

— EFL Communications (@EFL_Comms) May 19, 2026