Southampton have been removed from the English Football League Championship playoff final following a disciplinary ruling after the club admitted to spying on a training session involving semi-final opponents Middlesbrough.
As a result, Middlesbrough have been reinstated and will now meet Hull at Wembley on Saturday for a Premier League place in what is widely regarded as one of football’s most financially significant fixtures, with promotion estimated to be worth around £200 million in additional revenue.
An independent disciplinary commission also imposed a four-point deduction on Southampton for next season after the club admitted to several breaches involving the “unauthorised filming of other clubs’ training” sessions, according to an official statement from the EFL.
According to reports, a member of Southampton’s coaching staff was discovered by Middlesbrough officials filming a training session using a mobile phone.
The EFL also confirmed that further charges were brought against the club after admissions that similar monitoring had taken place ahead of matches against Oxford United and Ipswich Town.
Southampton, who were relegated from the Premier League last season, have confirmed their intention to appeal the ruling.
The EFL added that arrangements were being made to hear the appeal on Wednesday, noting that any outcome could still affect Saturday’s fixture.
Middlesbrough responded to the decision by welcoming the ruling, saying it reinforces the importance of integrity and fair conduct within the sport.
The first leg of the semi-final ended goalless, before Southampton advanced 2–1 after extra time in the return fixture.
