Tonda Eckert, Southampton and the Football Association
7 October 2026
Southampton manager Tonda Eckert received a six-week suspended football ban and a £28,000 fine for his involvement in the club’s training-ground spying scandal. The ruling allows him to continue managing despite the FA initially seeking a three-month suspension.
An independent commission accepted substantial mitigating circumstances, including Eckert’s remorse and the potential consequences for his employment. The ban will be activated if he becomes involved in further spying before the end of next season. The FA may still appeal.