Southampton head coach Tonda Eckert has been charged with misconduct by the Football Association (FA) for alleged role in the club’s “Spygate” scandal.
The charges follow an FA investigation after Southampton were expelled from the Championship play-offs in May for admitting to spying on rival clubs during the 2025/26 season.
FA alleges misconduct
The FA confirmed that Eckert has been charged with three breaches of FA Rule E3.1 relating to alleged misconduct between December 2025 and May 2026.
According to the governing body, it is alleged that the Southampton boss:
- Acted in an improper manner; and/or
- Brought the game into disrepute by directing or authorising the observation of opposition training sessions.
Eckert has until next Tuesday to respond to the charges.
Independent commission findings
An independent disciplinary commission previously concluded that the surveillance operation had been authorised by Eckert and described it as “a contrived and determined plan from the top down.”
Southampton admitted spying on the training sessions of:
- Oxford United
- Ipswich Town
- Middlesbrough
The club had defeated Middlesbrough over two legs in the Championship play-off semi-finals before the English Football League (EFL) expelled Saints from the play-offs.
Middlesbrough were subsequently reinstated to the final, where they lost to Hull City.
Southampton back their head coach
In a statement, Southampton acknowledged the FA charges and confirmed the club would continue to cooperate with the investigation.
The club said:
“Tonda and the club will continue to co-operate fully and openly with the FA.
“Our focus remains on preparations for the 2026-27 Championship season. The club remains fully supportive of Tonda and his staff as we work towards our ambition of returning to the Premier League.”
The club added it would make no further comment while the disciplinary process remains ongoing.
In addition to being removed from last season’s Championship play-offs, Southampton will begin the 2026/27 Championship season with a four-point deduction.
The Saints are scheduled to open their campaign away to Watford on 16 August, while the outcome of the FA’s disciplinary proceedings against Eckert remains pending.
