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Southampton expelled, four-point penalty; Hull vs Middlesbrough set for final

5/23/2026

Summary

Southampton Appeal Dismissed

The EFL Arbitration Panel dismissed Southampton's appeal on May 20, confirming its expulsion from play-off final and a four-point deduction after Middlesbrough’s Kim Hellberg accused the club of cheating following a staffer’s May 7 training video.
Southampton, which earned 72 points, will start 2026-27 with a four-point deficit, refund tickets and pledge humility.
Hull City will face Middlesbrough in Wembley final on 23 May at 3:30 p.m., with $300 million promotion prize.

Summary

Middlesbrough Injured

Betting markets have exploded ahead of the final, with Hull at 3/1, a draw at 12/5 and Middlesbrough at 17/20.
Middlesbrough will miss Tommy Conway (ankle) and Alfie Jones, while Hull lacks Kyle Joseph and doubts Alex Bangura’s fitness.
Manager Sergej Jakirovic bought 70 tickets for family and friends and notes that only three winners have won by more than one goal since Wembley hosted the final in 2007.

Summary

Hull Seeks Promotion

Hull owner Acun Ilicali consulted lawyers who argue that Southampton’s expulsion should automatically promote Hull, entitling the club to £205 million in Premier League revenue.
The team has held only one light-training session since the semi-final, with half the squad conducting passing drills on Tuesday.
Midfielder Hayden Hackney, who was seen crying after the semi-final loss, is expected to be fit for the final despite a calf injury sustained in March.

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Southampton Appeal Dismissed

The EFL Arbitration Panel dismissed Southampton's appeal on May 20, confirming its expulsion from play-off final and a four-point deduction after Middlesbrough’s Kim Hellberg accused the club of cheating following a staffer’s May 7 training video.
Southampton, which earned 72 points, will start 2026-27 with a four-point deficit, refund tickets and pledge humility.
Hull City will face Middlesbrough in Wembley final on 23 May at 3:30 p.m., with $300 million promotion prize.

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