Hull City A.F.C. Secure Premier League Return After Dramatic Play-Off Victory
Sports Updated: 23 May 2026 21:14 EAT
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Hull City A.F.C. have secured promotion back to the Premier League after defeating Middlesbrough F.C. 1-0 in the Championship play-off final at Wembley Stadium. The Tigers sealed their long-awaited return to England’s top flight thanks to a dramatic stoppage-time winner from striker Oli McBurnie.
Hull’s promotion marks the club’s first return to the Premier League since the 2016/17 season and completes a remarkable revival under manager Sergej Jakirović. The Yorkshire side finished sixth in the Championship before overcoming Millwall in the semi-finals to book their place at Wembley.
The play-off final was played under unusual circumstances after Southampton were expelled from the promotion final following a major “Spygate” controversy involving allegations of illegal surveillance during the season. Middlesbrough were later reinstated into the final after Southampton’s disqualification.
Hull remained composed despite the uncertainty surrounding the fixture and eventually delivered the decisive breakthrough in added time. McBurnie’s winning goal sparked emotional celebrations among thousands of travelling supporters inside Wembley Stadium.
The promotion is expected to deliver a huge financial boost to the club, with Premier League qualification potentially worth more than £200 million through broadcasting revenue, sponsorship agreements and commercial growth.
Club owner Acun Ilıcalı praised the players, coaching staff and supporters following the victory, describing the achievement as a historic moment in Hull City’s modern era. The Turkish businessman has overseen major investment in the squad since taking over the club in 2022.
Hull City will now prepare for the 2026/27 Premier League campaign alongside fellow promoted clubs Coventry City and Ipswich Town as they return to compete against England’s elite once again.
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FELIX MAKONA
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