Southampton F.C. have been thrown out of the Championship playoffs after an Independent Disciplinary Commission found the club guilty of breaching EFL rules through the unauthorized monitoring of rival teams’ training sessions.
The ruling follows an investigation into multiple incidents involving the alleged filming and observation of opponents ahead of important league fixtures during the 2025/26 campaign.
Football journalist Ben Jacobs reported that Southampton admitted to several violations connected to the spying activities, which reportedly took place within 72 hours of scheduled matches.
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The affected fixtures involved clashes against Oxford United F.C. in December 2025, Ipswich Town F.C. in April 2026, and Middlesbrough F.C. earlier this month.
In addition to their removal from the playoffs, Southampton were also handed a four-point deduction that will apply at the start of the 2026/27 season.
Following the decision, Middlesbrough F.C. are expected to replace Southampton in the playoff fixture against Hull City A.F.C. scheduled for May 23.
Despite the sanctions, Southampton still retain the right to appeal the ruling, with officials reportedly aiming to resolve the matter before May 20.
More details are expected to emerge in the coming days.
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