people · May 21, 2026
Southampton Loses Appeal, Remains Expelled from Play-Off Final in Spygate Case
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Southampton FC lost its appeal against the EFL decision expelling the club from the Championship Play-Off Final and imposing a four-point deduction for the 2026/27 season. The club admitted spying on Middlesbrough during the play-off semi-final, as well as on Ipswich Town and Oxford United earlier in the 2025/26 season. Middlesbrough replaced Southampton in the final against Hull City on 23 May 2026. EFL confirmed the sanctions stand as final after the League Arbitration Panel dismissed the appeal. Boro issued a statement welcoming the decision as a message for sporting integrity. Southampton earned 72 points to finish fourth under manager Tonda Eckert.
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