Southampton have been expelled from the English Football League Championship playoff final after admitting to spying on a training session of semifinal opponents Middlesbrough.
Middlesbrough have been reinstated as a result of Tuesday’s decision and are set to face Hull at Wembley on Saturday for a place in the Premier League. The match is regarded as the most lucrative in world football, given the winner receives an estimated £200 million in extra income.
An independent disciplinary commission also ordered that Southampton be docked four points next season after admitting to multiple breaches of regulations related to the “unauthorised filming of other clubs’ training” sessions, according to a statement from the EFL.
A member of the Southampton coaching staff was caught by Middlesbrough officials recording training on his phone. The EFL confirmed further charges had been laid against Southampton, and that the club had also admitted observing training sessions ahead of matches against Oxford and Ipswich.
Southampton, relegated from the Premier League last season, confirmed they would appeal the sanctions. The EFL said the parties were working to ensure an appeal could be heard on Wednesday, adding that subject to the outcome, it could result in a further change to Saturday’s fixture.
Middlesbrough issued a statement welcoming the outcome, saying they believe this sends out a clear message for the future of the game regarding sporting integrity and conduct.
The first leg of the semifinal had ended 0-0 before Southampton progressed with a 2-1 win after extra time in the second leg.
