Southampton appeal decision to ban club from Championship play-offs

English football has been rocked by a major scandal after Southampton were found guilty of spying on their opponents and subsequently disqualified from the Championship play-off final. The Saints are now set to challenge the ruling.

Details: As officially confirmed by Southampton chief executive Phil Parsons, the Saints have filed an appeal against the decision of the Independent Disciplinary Commission.

Quote: “We have submitted an appeal against yesterday’s decision by the Independent Disciplinary Commission to expel Southampton Football Club from the Sky Bet Championship play-offs and deduct four points for the 2026/27 season. Before addressing this appeal further, I want to speak directly and without ambiguity to our supporters, players, and the wider football community.

What happened was wrong. The club has admitted breaching clauses 3.4 and 127 of the EFL Regulations. We apologise to the other clubs affected by this situation and, above all, to Southampton supporters, whose extraordinary loyalty and backing throughout this season deserved far better from the club.

We fully cooperated with the EFL investigation and disciplinary process. Following the submission of this appeal, we will also send a letter to the EFL offering to participate in a working group focused on the practical application and enforcement of clause 127 within the Championship. Remorse without change is empty, and we intend to demonstrate change,” the statement read.

Reminder: Middlesbrough are currently set to replace Southampton in the Championship play-off final. The match is scheduled to take place against Hull City on Saturday, May 23.