Swindon Town Expelled From Vertu Trophy

Swindon Town Football Club has been removed from the 2025/26 Vertu Trophy following violations of EFL Regulations and competition rules, the Independent Disciplinary Commission has announced.

The club has also been fined £40,000, with £20,000 suspended. The suspended portion will become payable if Swindon fields or names an ineligible player before the conclusion of the 2026/27 season.

The breaches were linked to Swindon’s Round of 16 victory over Luton Town on 13 January 2026, which ended 2-1 in Swindon’s favor. Investigations found that Oliver Clarke participated in the match while serving a seven-game suspension issued by the Football Association. Additionally, Aaron Drinan entered the game as a second-half substitute despite not being listed on the official team sheet.

As a consequence, Luton Town will now advance to the Vertu Trophy Quarter-Finals, where they will host Plymouth Argyle. The fixture date will be confirmed within 48 hours, following a rescheduling request from Plymouth, who were originally set to play on Tuesday 10 February 2026.

The EFL stressed the importance of strict adherence to player eligibility rules to safeguard fairness and integrity across all competitions.

In response, Swindon Town expressed disappointment at the decision. The club stated:

“We strongly believe this outcome is unfair and do not agree with the findings. That said, we respect the disciplinary process and the authority of the Commission."

"Right now, our focus has to be on moving forward together as a football club."

"Above all, our priority remains with our players, staff, and supporters."