Southampton, Middlesbrough, Hull City, EFL
19 May 2026
Southampton’s Championship play-off final place came under threat as an EFL disciplinary hearing began over alleged spying on Middlesbrough training. The case could affect Saturday’s Wembley final against Hull City, depending on the commission’s decision.
Southampton are accused of breaching rules by observing Middlesbrough within 72 hours of their play-off semi-final. Possible sanctions include a fine, points deduction or removal from the play-offs, with Middlesbrough pushing for a default outcome.