Southampton expelled from Championship play-off final, Middlesbrough to meet Hull

Southampton have been expelled from the Championship play‑off final. The expulsion follows the Spygate scandal.

The removal creates an opening in the final match. Middlesbrough will now face Hull.

Middlesbrough and Hull will contest the promotion spot. The winner stands to earn an estimated £200 million from Premier League participation.

The Spygate scandal led to the decision to expel Southampton. The sanction removes them from the competition.

Southampton’s season now ends without a chance of promotion. Their exclusion eliminates any prospect of top‑flight revenue.

The play‑off final will decide which club joins the Premier League. The match will be closely watched for its financial implications.