Southampton’s appeal against their expulsion from the Championship play-off final as a result of the ‘spygate’ scandal has been dismissed. As a result, Hull City will take on Middlesbrough in Saturday’s play-off final, with the Wembley showpiece kicking off at 3.30pm.
On Tuesday evening, Southampton were expelled from the Championship play-offs, with Middlesbrough reinstated, after a member of the Saints’ backroom staff was caught watching Boro’s training ahead of the first leg of their play-off semi-final.
In summary…
Southampton’s appeal against their play-off expulsion has been dismissed
Southampton have admitted fault but believe the ruling is ‘disproportionate’
Saturday’s Championship KO time has been moved to 3.30pm
Further sanctions could follow alongside Championship points deduction
According to the EFL, Southampton admitted “multiple breaches” relating to the unauthorised filming of their opponents’ training ahead of games against Oxford and Ipswich, as well as the clash with Middlesbrough.In addition to their expulsion from Saturday’s final, Southampton were handed a four-point deduction for next season. Reacting to their expulsion, Southampton called the ruling “manifestly disproportionate” to the offence.
The Saints appealed the ruling, but it was dismissed on Wednesday night with no further opportunity of appeal.
An EFL statement read: “A League Arbitration Panel has today dismissed Southampton Football Club’s appeal against the Independent Disciplinary Commission’s decision in respect of breaches of EFL Regulations.
“As a result, the original sanction remains in force. Southampton’s expulsion from the Sky Bet Championship Play-Offs stands, alongside the four-point deduction to be applied to the Club’s 2026/27 Championship record and the reprimand in respect of all charges.”In accordance with EFL Regulations, the decision of the League Arbitration Panel is final. Following the conclusion of the proceedings, the Sky Bet Championship Play-Off Final between Hull City and Middlesbrough is confirmed as taking place at Wembley Stadium on Saturday 23 May, kicking off at 3.30pm.”Southampton vow to respond with ‘humility’ after ‘disappointing’ appeal outcome
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2026-05-20 21:30:00
