15.05.2026 08:10
An investigation has been launched into Southampton, Acun Ilıcalı's team Hull City's opponent after advancing to the Championship final in England, over allegations of "spying." The English club is accused of secretly observing Middlesbrough's training session, and while a decision is expected by Tuesday, the possibility of postponing the playoff final has also emerged.
A claim about Southampton, who advanced to the final by eliminating Middlesbrough in the Championship play-off semi-final, has caused a stir. It is alleged that the English club secretly spied on their opponent's training, and the outcome of the investigation is eagerly awaited.
ALLEGEDLY WATCHED TRAINING SECRETLY
According to allegations, an analyst working for Southampton secretly filmed Middlesbrough's training before the first leg of the play-off semi-final. It is reported that Middlesbrough is preparing to submit evidence to the English Football League.
It is stated that the photo included in the file shows a young person allegedly hiding behind a tree near the training facilities and recording footage with a mobile phone.
EYES ON THE ENGLISH FOOTBALL LEAGUE
The English Football League has announced that the decision regarding the "spying" allegations against Southampton will be revealed by Tuesday, May 19.
The outcome of the investigation concerns not only Southampton but also Hull City, owned by Acun Ilıcalı. It has been suggested that the Championship play-off final, scheduled to be played between Hull City and Southampton on Saturday, May 23, could be postponed.
“DECISION TO BE ANNOUNCED AS SOON AS POSSIBLE”
In a statement by the English Football League, it was said: "The Independent Disciplinary Commission's hearing will take place on Tuesday, May 19, or earlier. Discussions on the exact date are ongoing and are expected to be confirmed shortly. The Commission will announce its decision as soon as possible after evaluating the relevant submissions and evidence."
“SCHEDULE CHANGES POSSIBLE”
The statement continued: "As the process is conducted by an independent disciplinary commission, the EFL does not control the proposed timeline. Nevertheless, the EFL continues to plan on the basis that the Championship play-off final will kick off as scheduled on Saturday, May 23, at 16:30 (18:30 Turkish time). However, fans should be aware that the outcome of the disciplinary process may lead to changes in the schedule. The EFL has a range of contingency plans in place if needed, including a possible appeals process."