Hamid Akhavan

Under Hamid Akhavan's leadership, EchoStar faced an FCC review in 2025 concerning 5G deployment obligations, deadline extensions and spectrum use. EchoStar stated that the FCC considered some of the spectrum underused and presented a choice between selling a material volume of licences and widespread revocation. The group then initiated major sales to AT&T and SpaceX and began abandoning parts of its 5G network.

State of the evidence

Documented

Attribution

Direct responsibility

In November 2025, Charles Ergen resumed the roles of president and CEO of EchoStar, while Akhavan was reassigned to head EchoStar Capital. On 6 July 2026, following discussions with the board about a "change in strategic direction", Akhavan resigned immediately from all his positions at EchoStar and Hughes. His departure came amid a radical restructuring of the group.

State of the evidence

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Attribution

Direct responsibility

Faced with uncertainty arising from the FCC review and liquidity needs, EchoStar chose not to make several debt interest payments when due. The non-payment constituted a contractual default, but payments and late interest were subsequently made during the grace periods before a continuing event of default materialised.

State of the evidence

Documented

Attribution

Direct responsibility