Southampton learn their punishment for ‘Spygate’ as EFL release statement

The EFL have made their decision

Ahead of the first leg of Middlesbrough and the Saints' play-off first leg, a report in The Mail revealed that an individual thought to be a Southampton staff member had been spotted recording training at Boro's Rockliffe Park.

Although Southampton ultimately triumphed over the two legs, both clubs have been preparing for the Wembley final against Hull City on May 23rd, as they awaited the outcome of an EFL investigation into the allegations.

Boro, making a lengthy statement in the aftermath of their defeat, accused Southampton of fault that "goes to heart of sporting integrity and fair competition," before later calling for the Saints to be thrown out of the play-offs.

"In these circumstances, the only appropriate response is a sporting sanction which would prevent Southampton FC from participating in the EFL Championship play-off final," they added.

Up until today's hearing, there had been no indication as to whether Middlesbrough's complaint would be upheld, the game would be postponed — to give Boro supporters time to prepare for Saturday' final — or if Saints would simply be handed a substantial fine instead for the offence, as was the case when Marcelo Bielsa's Leeds United were accused of the same — and issued with a £200,00 fine — back in 2019.

The punishment Southampton will face has now been confirmed.

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EFL release statement:

The EFL have expelled Southampton from the play-off finals.

A statement read:

• Southampton expelled from Sky Bet Championship play-offs.
• Club also receive four point deduction in 2026/27
• Middlesbrough reinstated into Championship play-offs and will face Hull City in final on Saturday 23 May.

"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 four-point deduction that will be applied to the 2026/27 Championship table, alongside a reprimand in respect of all the charges."

What happened during the 2019 "Spygate" scandal?

Back in 2019, a Leeds side led by Marcelo Bielsa were accused of spying on Derby County training ahead of a Championship match between the two.

The Argentine head coach eventually admitted to the tactic, and the club were later fined were fined £200,000.