<p>This paper investigates the behavior of reinforced concrete bored piles embedded in layered soils containing a soft clay layer under both axial and lateral loading. Experimental data from full-scale pile load tests, conducted on 0.6 m diameter and 16&#xa0;m long piles, were used to validate a three-dimensional finite element model employing the Modified Mohr-Coulomb soil model. The validated model was then used to perform a parametric study, varying the depth and thickness of the soft clay layer. The results show that increasing the thickness of the soft clay layer significantly increases the settlement of axially loaded piles. In contrast, the depth of the soft clay layer from the ground surface had a negligible effect on the settlement. The soft clay layer’s depth critically influences the piles’ lateral response, with shallower depths (within five times the diameter of the pile) leading to increased lateral deflection and bending moments. A stiffer soil layer above the soft clay mitigates these adverse effects. Furthermore, the study reveals a significant interaction between axial and lateral loading. These findings underscore the importance of considering the depth and thickness of soft clay layers and the combined effects of axial and lateral loading in the design of pile foundations. The validated numerical model provides a valuable tool for predicting pile behavior in complex soil conditions, contributing to more efficient and reliable pile foundation designs.</p>