FA sets July deadline for Eckert after three Spygate‑related violations
The English Football Association announced today at 12:59 that Tonda Eckert has been charged with three breaches of FA rules following the Spygate scandal, giving the club and the coach until 28 July 2026 to respond and will face possible sanctions immediately.
In May, Southampton were barred from the Championship play‑offs after it was revealed the club had observed Middlesbrough’s closed training session, a clear violation of competition rules.
The breach also meant Southampton were excluded from the play‑off final and will start the next season with a four‑point deduction.
Further allegations claim the head coach arranged for Southampton’s staff to watch training sessions of Oxford United, Ipswich Town and Middlesbrough ahead of matches against those sides.
The FA has set a deadline of Tuesday 28 July 2026 for Eckert to submit a formal response to the charges.
Southampton released a statement through official channels, confirming full cooperation with the FA and reaffirming their focus on the Championship 2026/27 campaign.
"Our focus remains on preparations for the Championship season 2026/27. The club continues to fully support Tonda and his staff in our efforts to return to the Premier League."
"As long as the process runs, we cannot provide further clarification, but we will keep our supporters informed as soon as we are able."