The FA said Eckert faces three alleged breaches of Rule E3.1, accusing him of acting improperly and bringing the game into disrepute by directing or authorizing the observation of training sessions involving Oxford United, Ipswich Town and Middlesbrough before matches against Southampton between December 2025 and May 2026, News.Az reports, citing Anadolu Agency.
According to the governing body, Eckert has until July 28 to respond to the charges.
The charges stem from an FA investigation launched after an independent disciplinary commission concluded in May that the spying operation had been approved by Eckert as part of what it described as a “contrived and determined plan from the top down.”
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The commission’s findings led to Southampton’s expulsion from the Championship play-offs after the club admitted to observing opponents’ training sessions. Middlesbrough, whom Southampton had defeated in the semi-finals, were reinstated to the play-off final but went on to lose to Hull City.
In a statement, Southampton said the club and Eckert acknowledge the charges and will “continue to cooperate 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 said, adding that it would make no further comment while the disciplinary process remains ongoing.
