The road to the Premier League comes down to one final match as Middlesbrough take on Hull City in the 2026 EFL Championship Play-Off Final at Wembley Stadium. With promotion to the Premier League on the line, both clubs enter one of the most financially and emotionally important matches of the season.
Middlesbrough’s path to the Championship Play-Off Final took a dramatic turn following controversy involving Southampton.
Southampton had initially advanced to the final after defeating Middlesbrough in the EFL Championship playoff semifinals. However, an EFL disciplinary investigation later determined that Southampton staff had engaged in unauthorized spying activities before the semifinal matchup.
According to reports, a Southampton staff member was accused of filming Middlesbrough’s closed training session ahead of the match, violating competition and fair play regulations.
Following a fast-tracked investigation and disciplinary review, Southampton received punishment that removed them from the Championship Play-Off Final, resulting in Middlesbrough being reinstated and earning a second opportunity to compete for promotion at Wembley.
Where to Watch Middlesbrough vs Hull City
Fans in the United States can watch the Championship Play-Off Final live on Paramount+.
TV/Streaming Information
- Streaming: Paramount+ (US)
- Date: Saturday, May 23, 2026
- Kickoff Time: 11:30 a.m. ET
- Competition: EFL Championship Play-Off Final
Match Details
Match: Middlesbrough vs Hull City
Venue: Wembley Stadium
Location: London, England
Capacity: 90,000
Surface: Grass
The famous Wembley Stadium will host the decisive promotion clash, where one team will secure a place in the Premier League next season.
Team Form Entering the Final
Hull City Recent Form
Hull City have shown strong results leading into the final:
- Win vs Millwall (2-0)
- Draw vs Millwall (0-0)
- Win vs Norwich City (2-1)
- Loss vs Charlton Athletic (2-1)
- Draw vs Leicester City (2-2)
Middlesbrough Recent Form
Middlesbrough have also entered the final in competitive form:
- Win vs Middlesbrough opponent (2-1)
- Draw (0-0)
- Win (3-1)
- Draw (2-2)
- Loss vs Manchester City (2-1)
What’s at Stake?
The Championship Play-Off Final is often called the richest game in football because of the enormous financial rewards associated with Premier League promotion.
The winner secures:
- Promotion to the Premier League
- Increased television revenue
- Commercial and sponsorship opportunities
- Greater long-term financial stability
For Middlesbrough, it could mark a return to the Premier League after years away. For Hull City, it would represent a major step back to the top level of English football.
Prediction
Both sides enter the match with confidence, but Wembley finals often come down to small moments and defensive discipline. Hull City’s momentum and Middlesbrough’s experience should make for a tightly contested battle.
With promotion dreams on the line, expect an intense atmosphere and a match filled with drama.