Sports
Southampton's Eckert avoids ban in 'spygate' verdict, keeps his job
October 8, 2026 at 04:12 PM
Coverage
2 reports · over 6 hours
The FA handed Southampton manager Tonda Eckert a suspended six-week ban and £28,000 fine over the spying scandal, leaving him free to continue in his role.
- The FA imposed a six-week suspension, suspended until the end of the 2027-28 season, a £28,000 fine and a reprimand, confirming Eckert admitted the charges.
- Southampton was kicked out of last season's Championship playoff and docked four points after an EFL commission ruled Eckert had "specifically authorised" the spying.
- Owner Dragan Solak said the club had "suffered enough" and expressed confidence the manager has learned from the matter.
- Eckert will lead Southampton against Portsmouth on Sunday in the Championship.

