Southampton have issued a statement after discovering that their appeal against EFL punishments for Spygate were rejected by an independent panel, ending their season in disgrace22:20, 20 May 2026Southampton have issued a grovelling apology to their own fans and vowed to "put things right" after they lost their appeal over the Spygate saga. Saints had appealed against what they believed to be a "disproportionate" sanction from the EFL, but saw that argument rejected by an independent panel on Wednesday evening.‌It means they have been kicked out of the Championship play-off final, with Middlesbrough set to play Hull City at Wembley Stadium on Saturday. Southampton admitted spying on three opponents during the season, with their rule breaching becoming clear after a member of staff was caught watching Middlesbrough's training session before the play-off semi final.‌Saints will also start next season in the Championship on minus four points and further ramifications are sure to come, with manager Tonda Eckert in the spotlight, with FA charges now likely to follow. Meanwhile, Southampton's players are understood to be considering their own legal action, having missed out on a shot at immediate promotion back to the Premier League through no fault of their own.‌The south coast club maintain that the punishment does not fit the crime, but after seeing their appeal rejected, have begun to show some introspection. Fans who had bought tickets to Wembley are now due refunds after their season collapsed in dramatic and unprecedented circumstances.JOIN US ON FACEBOOK! Latest news, analysis and much more on Mirror Football's Facebook pageREAD MORE: Southampton LOSE Spygate appeal as Middlesbrough set for Championship play-off finalREAD MORE: Aston Villa win first trophy in 30 years as Unai Emery extends Europa League recordSouthampton said in a statement: "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.‌"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."Article continues belowJoin our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.