Southampton Lose Appeal as Championship Play-Off Sanction Is Upheld
Posted : 21 May 2026
Southampton’s appeal against their expulsion from the Championship play-offs has been rejected, confirming their removal from the final phase.
The EFL decision follows their admission of spying on rival teams, including Middlesbrough, during training sessions.
The play-off final will now proceed without Saints, with Hull City facing Middlesbrough for promotion to the Premier League.