--- source: thedugout.football generated: 2026-06-09T17:21:51.039Z data_provider: API-Football canonical: https://thedugout.football/clubs/hull-city/news/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuaHVsbGRhaWx5bWFpbC5jby51ay9zcG9ydC9mb290YmFsbC9mb290YmFsbC1uZXdzL2VmbC1yZXZlYWwtc291dGhhbXB0b24tc3B5Z2F0ZS1hcHBlYWwtMTA5NDkxMDQ --- # EFL reveal Southampton appeal outcome as Hull City get play-off final clarity - **Source:** - **Club:** Hull City - **Original URL:** https://www.hulldailymail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/efl-reveal-southampton-spygate-appeal-10949104 Southampton were kicked out of the play-offs on Tuesday after admitting multiple breaches of spying rules, and were also docked four points that will come into effect next season. An independent panel heard Southampton's appeal on Wednesday evening, but it was dismissed, and now City can look forward to Saturday's clash with Boro under the Wembley arch for a place in the Premier League, with the game kicking off at 3:30 pm. JOIN US ON FACEBOOK! Latest Hull City news and analysis on our Hull Live FB page "A League Arbitration Panel has tonight dismissed Southampton Football Club’s appeal against the Independent Disciplinary Commission’s sanction following the admittance of multiple breaches of EFL Regulations," the league said in a statement on Wednesday evening. "The determination means that the original sanction of expulsion from the Sky Bet Championship Play-Offs remains in place, as does the four-point deduction to be applied to the 2026/27 Championship table and the reprimand in respect of all charges. "The Club submitted its appeal following yesterday’s decision of the Independent Disciplinary Commission in respect of breaches of EFL Regulations {see HERE}. As per EFL Regulations, the decision of the League Arbitration Panel is final and cannot be appealed. "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. "The League Arbitration Panel’s written reasons will be published in due course along with the Independent Disciplinary Commission’s full decision." No sooner had the EFL published their statement than the South Club outfit responded by admitting it was a painful night. "Southampton Football Club has this evening been informed that the EFL’s League Arbitration Panel has upheld the sanctions imposed earlier this week. As a result, the club will not participate in Saturday’s Championship Play-Off Final," it wrote. "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." Here at Hull Live, we are dedicated to bringing you the best Hull City coverage and analysis. Make sure you don't miss out on the latest City news by joining our free WhatsApp group.