Championship play-off final in jeopardy due to Spygate allegations in 2026

The Championship play-off final may be postponed due to an investigation into the Spygate scandal involving Southampton.

Hearing Scheduled for Spygate Scandal A hearing is set to take place on or before Tuesday 19 May to investigate the Spygate scandal surrounding finalists Southampton. This comes as a result of the English Football League's (EFL) charges against the Saints for observing one of Middlesborough's training sessions before last Saturday's semi-final first leg at the Riverside. The EFL has accused Southampton of breaking rules by spying on their opponents. As a result, the potential consequences for the team may be severe, potentially affecting their chances in the play-off final against Hull City for a place in the Premier League next season. ## Southampton Fined for Alleged Breach of EFL Rules The EFL has charged Southampton with breaking rules by observing one of Middlesborough's training sessions before last Saturday's semi-final first leg at the Riverside. The alleged breach of EFL rules may lead to severe consequences for the team, potentially affecting their chances in the play-off final. Southampton are due to face Hull City in the play-off final for a place in the Premier League next season. The hearing scheduled for on or before Tuesday 19 May will determine the outcome of this case.