Second-tier Wigan Athletic will receive a 12-point deduction after their final game of the season at home to Fulham on Wednesday, the English Football League have confirmed.
The sanction has been imposed after Wigan went into administration this month.
Wigan are in 13th place in the standings, but only 10 points above Luton Town who occupy the third relegation place, meaning the points deduction could relegate them even if they win.
However, they do have the right of appeal, meaning their fate, and that of other clubs in the relegation tussle, could be decided after the season has been concluded.
An EFL statement confirmed the clubs in 22nd, 23rd and 24th places (once Wigan's 12-point deduction has taken effect) would be relegated "subject to the resolution of any ongoing proceedings."
"In the case of Wigan Athletic the 12-point sporting sanction, as a result of the club entering administration, will apply immediately following the end of the game against Fulham but is subject to appeal.
"Independent Disciplinary Commissions are well aware of the challenges for any club that is subject to proceedings, and the need for clarity for financial and operational planning purposes, particularly ahead of the summer transfer window opening later this month," the EFL said.
(Reporting by Martyn Herman, editing by Pritha Sarkar)
