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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Sport
Independent Staff

When is the Championship play-off final? What to know after ‘Spygate’ appeal verdict

Southampton FA Middlesbrough Tonda Eckert EFL Football League Hull City Ipswich Town Oxford United Football
  • Southampton's appeal against their expulsion from the Championship play-off final has been rejected, upholding the EFL 's disciplinary action.
  • It means Middlesbrough, whom Southampton defeated in the semi-finals, will now replace them in the play-off final against Hull City at Wembley on Saturday, May 23, with the game due to kick-off at 3.30pm.
  • Southampton were found guilty of spying, having admitted to filming training sessions of opposing Championship sides, including Oxford United, Ipswich Town, as well as Middlesbrough.
  • As a result of breaching Football League regulations, Southampton will also face a four-point deduction for the 2026/27 season.
  • Southampton had argued the punishment was "manifestly disproportionate", and the analyst involved, Tonda Eckert, may face further FA misconduct charges.
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