As a result, the Saints will be replaced by Middlesbrough in Saturday’s match against Hull City at Wembley. They will also be subject to a four-point deduction at the start of the 2026/27 Championship campaign.
The saga started when one of their analysts was caught recording a Middlesbrough training session ahead of their semi-final tie at the Riverside Stadium.
Further incidents have come to light in the hearing. Southampton have admitted to spying on Oxford United in December, as well as Town last month, with The Athletic revealing that staff members wore Eastleigh kits in disguise to watch the Blues’ training session at the non-league club.
Southampton apologised for their actions but argued that the punishment was too severe, launching an appeal. Reports suggested that they turned to renowned barrister Lord Pannick in an attempt to change the initial decision, but it ultimately failed.
Middlesbrough were beaten by the Saints in the semi-finals but will now face Hull City in the final at Wembley (Image: PA)
The EFL confirmed: “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 published a statement of their own, saying: “This is an extremely disappointing outcome for everybody connected with Southampton Football Club. We know how painful this moment will be for our supporters, players, staff, commercial partners and the wider community who have given so much backing to the team throughout the season and we apologise once again to everyone impacted by this.
“While we fully acknowledge the seriousness of this matter and the scrutiny that has followed, the club has consistently believed the original sporting sanction was disproportionate, a view that has been widely shared by many in the football community over the last 24 hours.
The Tigers are reportedly unhappy at the late change of plans (Image: PA)
“We would like to place on record our sincere thanks to our supporters for the support, patience and loyalty they have shown throughout an incredibly difficult period. We will share information as soon as possible in relation to ticket refunds for those who bought tickets to Wembley.
“Southampton Football Club has a proud history and strong foundations, but it is clear that trust now needs to be rebuilt. That work begins immediately. The club will reflect carefully on the events that have led to this point, learn from them and take the necessary steps to move forward responsibly.
“While tonight is a painful moment, this football club will respond with humility, accountability and determination to put things right.”