Southampton were expelled from the Championship play-offs after they admitted to spying on semi-final opponents Middlesbrough and two other opposition clubs earlier this season
Southampton have lost their appeal over the Spygate scandal and will not compete in the Championship play-off final. The Saints were expelled from the play-offs on Tuesday after admitting to multiple breaches of EFL rules which included spying on one of Middlesbrough’s training session ahead of their semi-final first leg.
In addition to being replaced by Middlesbrough in Saturday’s final against Hull City at Wembley, Southampton were hit with a four-point deduction which will be implemented next season. The club quickly appealed the verdict and have now received a response.
A statement confirming the decision was shared by the EFL, which read: “A League Arbitration Panel has tonight dismissed Southampton Football Club’s appeal against the Independent Disciplinary Commission’s sanction following the admittance of multiple breaches of EFL Regulations.
“The determination means that the original sanction of expulsion from the Sky Bet Championship Play -Offs remains in place, as do es the four -point deduction to be applied to the 2026/27 Championship table and the reprimand in respect of all charges.
“The Club submitted its appeal following yesterday’s decision of the Independent Disciplinary Commission in respect of breaches of EFL Regulations. As per EFL Regulations, the decision of the League Arbitration Panel is final and cannot be appealed.
“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 .
“The League Arbitration Panel’s written reasons will be published in due course along with the Independent Disciplinary Commission’s full decision.”
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