Southampton head coach Tonda Eckert has been handed a six-week suspended ban by the Football Association over his involvement in last season's spygate scandal. The suspension allows him to continue in his role, with the ban deferred until next season and a fine also imposed on the 33-year-old.
Spygate scandal details
The Saints were kicked out of the Championship play-off final due to spying on Middlesbrough before their semi-final meeting. At a hearing at the time, the South Coast club admitted they had also conducted similar operations against Oxford United and Ipswich Town during the regular season.
Southampton were also handed a four-point deduction by the EFL, which was implemented at the start of the 2026/27 campaign. It was confirmed by the Saints that Eckert will remain as head coach in the wake of the scandal that rocked English football.
FA decision and impact
Now a decision has been reached by the FA on Eckert, allowing him to continue his role as the ban is suspended until next season. The fine was handed out alongside the suspended ban, bringing the disciplinary process to a close.
