Southampton expelled from play-off final as appeal dismissed

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·21 May 2026

Southampton’s expulsion from the Championship play-off final has been upheld after their appeal was dismissed.

According to Daily Echo, a League Arbitration Panel rejected the club’s challenge, and under EFL Regulations the panel’s decision is final.

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Beaten semi-finalists Middlesbrough have been drafted into the Wembley final against Hull City, with kick-off set for 3.30pm on Saturday, 23 May.

The Independent Disciplinary Commission’s original sanction for breaches of EFL Regulations therefore remains in force.

Southampton had contested the severity of the Spygate punishment, but their appeal has failed.

Source: Daily Echo