Swindon have been ejected from the Vertu Trophy by the English Football League after being found guilty of using two ineligible players in their match against Luton Town, meaning the Hatters progress to the quarter-finals instead.
The Robins were charged by both the EFL and the Football Association following their 2-1 victory over Luton last month.
Captain Ollie Clarke featured in the starting line-up despite serving a suspension, while Aaron Drinan came on as a substitute even though he had not been named on the official teamsheet.
Luton will now face Plymouth Argyle at Kenilworth Road in the last-eight, although the match will not take place on Tuesday, 10 February as originally planned.
The EFL confirmed that a revised fixture date will be announced within the next 48 hours.
Swindon have also received a £40,000 fine, with £20,000 suspended. This suspended amount will become payable automatically if the club fields or lists another ineligible player on a teamsheet before the end of the 2026-27 season.
Swindon said they were “extremely disappointed” by the ruling.
“We firmly believe this decision is unjust and do not agree with the conclusions reached,” the club said in a statement.
“However, we respect the disciplinary process and the authority of the commission.
“Our immediate focus must be on sticking together as a football club. We will reflect on what has happened, learn from it, and ensure we continue to uphold the highest standards in everything we do.
“Above all, our priority is with our players, staff and supporters. We will continue to support them fully as we move forward and give everything in our remaining matches this season.”
Clarke was handed a one-match suspension by the FA last week, and the club were fined £1,000 for allowing him to play while he was still serving a separate seven-game ban.
Top scorer Drinan was one of three substitutions made at half-time, despite Ryan Tafazolli being listed in his place on the teamsheet.
Play continued until the 64th minute when Drinan’s participation was noticed and queried by officials and club staff, causing an eight-minute stoppage before the striker was allowed to remain on the field.
Swindon manager Ian Holloway described the incident as a “big mistake” in his post-match interview and said he expected “some form of punishment”. He also pointed out that match officials did not ask him to confirm the team on a screen before kick-off, which he claimed is standard procedure.
