)
“We fully cooperated with the EFL throughout the disciplinary process. We agree that a penalty should be imposed, but not to this extent. While Leeds was fined £200,000 in this matter, Southampton is now barred from a match worth over £200 million.
We believe that, in terms of financial implications, this is by far the largest fine ever imposed on an English football club,” DPA quoted Southampton CEO Phil Parsons, who deemed the punishment clearly disproportionate.
The Middlesbrough club reported to the EFL that a member of Southampton's coaching staff had been spying. The incident occurred on May 7th, two days before the first leg of the playoff semi-final.
That match ended in a goalless draw, with the home side, “The Saints,” winning the return leg 2-1 after extra time. In addition to the exclusion, Southampton was also penalized with a four-point deduction in the Championship for the 2026/27 season.
Middlesbrough, featuring Slovakian striker David Strelec, will now likely compete in the Premier League promotion playoff final. His team is scheduled to face Hull City on Saturday, May 23rd, at Wembley.
&format=webp)
&format=webp)
&format=webp)
&format=webp)
&format=webp)
&format=webp)