Southampton appeal unsuccessful: Middlesbrough to play Hull in Championship play-off final

Southampton's appeal after being kicked out of the Championship play-offs has been unsuccessful following an independent review.

The Saints were due to play Hull City in the Championship play-off final against this weekend but they were expelled after admitting to spying on three different clubs during the 2025/26 season.

Southampton decided to appeal due to their belief that the sanction was disproportionate but the decision has been upheld.

Middlesbrough, one of the teams that Southampton had spied on prior to the play-off semi-final tie between the two clubs, will play Hull for a place in the Premier League this weekend.

Tonda Eckert's side had beaten Middlesbrough over two legs but they have paid the ultimate price as they miss out on what could have been an immediate return to the top-flight.

A statement on the official Southampton website read:

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.

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.

Matt Gibbs

• Southampton F.C.
• Championship
• • 
  •