An independent panel has dismissed the appeal filed by Southampton challenging the verdict that expelled them from the EFL Championship Playoff final over spying on three opponents, including Middlesbrough. 

Southampton were on Tuesday found guilty in a spygate scandal after an intern analyst William Salt was caught near Rockliffe Park, where Middlesbrough were training 48 hours before the playoff semifinal first leg match between the two sides. 

Subsequently, the club was booted out of the playoffs, with Middlesbrough replacing them in the final against Hull City on Saturday. Southampton, however, immediately appealed the decision, arguing the punishment was disproportionate.

Four points would also be deducted from their tally next season. 

In a statement on Wednesday, the EFL has now announced that the appeal filed by Southampton was dismissed by an appeal panel, clearing the way for Middlesbrough to take on Hull City for the last Premier League promotion spot. 

The statement said, “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.”

In a statement issued by Southampton in response to today’s decision, the club maintained their initial position that the sanctions didn’t fit the crimes committed but apologised to everyone affected by the incident. 

“This is an extremely disappointing outcome for everybody connected with Southampton Football Club,” the club said. 

The statement added, “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.”