people · May 21, 2026
Southampton Appeal Against Play-Off Expulsion Dismissed by EFL Arbitration Panel
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EFL League Arbitration Panel dismissed Southampton FC’s appeal on 20 May 2026 against expulsion from the Championship Play-Off Final and a four-point deduction for 2026/27. The club had admitted multiple breaches involving unauthorised filming of rival training sessions against Oxford United, Ipswich Town, and Middlesbrough. Hull City will face Middlesbrough in the Play-Off Final on 23 May 2026 at 3:30pm. Southampton CEO Phil Parsons described the outcome as extremely disappointing and disproportionate to prior sanctions. The EFL stated the decision is final with no further appeal available.
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