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.
📘 https://t.co/kGIhl4GksL
History made at Wembley 🖤
154 years after the first FA Cup Final was played in 1872, Akil Howson becomes the first Black official to feature in the showpiece occasion.
Taking his place on the line at Wembley, Akil’s appointment is a landmark moment for representation in English football officiating and a powerful reflection of the progress being made across the game.
Moments like this matter. Visibility matters. Representation matters. 👏