Southampton F.C. have been expelled from the EFL Championship playoff final after admitting to spying on three teams during the season.

The latest case happened on May 7 after Southampton’s intern analyst William Salt was reportedly caught near Rockliffe Park, where Middlesbrough were training 48 hours before the playoff semifinal first leg match between the two sides. 

According to reports, Mr Salt was seen standing behind a tree while pointing his mobile at the training session with in-ear headphones on. Middlesbrough alleged he was likely live-streaming their activities via video call. 

When a Middlesbrough official approached him, he quickly fled the scene, but a club photographer managed to take his picture, which was later matched with a photo of Mr Salt on Southampton’s website. 

In a verdict on Tuesday, after the case was heard by an Independent League Arbitration panel with three new members, Southampton were booted out of the playoffs.

Four points would also be deducted from their tally next season. 

Middlesbrough, which Southampton defeated in their doubleheader semifinal tie, will now replace the Saints in the final against Hull City on Saturday.

The EFL stated, “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.

“The effect of today’s order is that Middlesbrough are reinstated into the 2026 Play-Offs and will proceed to the Play-Off Final against Hull City. The final remains scheduled for Saturday 23 May, with the kick-off time to be confirmed.”

Southampton recorded no wins from the three games against the teams they had spied on, suffering a 2-1 defeat at Oxford and settling for draws against Ipswich (2-2) and Middlesbrough (0-0).

Meanwhile, Southampton are reportedly preparing to appeal the decision on Wednesday and would argue that the punishment is disproportionate. 

“We believe this sends out a clear message for the future of our game regarding sporting integrity and conduct. As a club, we are now focused on our game against Hull City at Wembley on Saturday. Ticket information for our supporters will be available shortly,” Middlesbrough said in response to the verdict.