MLS Issues Lifetime Bans to Derrick Jones and Yaw Yeboah for Gambling on Matches

Major League Soccer (MLS) has issued lifetime suspensions to former players Derrick Jones and Yaw Yeboah for violating the league’s gambling policy. The investigation revealed extensive gambling on soccer, including bets placed on their own teams during the 2024 and 2025 seasons.

Investigation Details

The league initiated the investigation after receiving alerts of suspicious betting activity through its integrity partners. Patterson Belknap Webb & Tyler LLP was retained to conduct a thorough review, which found that both players engaged in gambling that violated league rules. A specific instance involved both Jones and Yeboah betting on Jones to receive a yellow card during a match against the New York Red Bulls on October 19, 2024, which ultimately occurred MLS Soccer.

Sharing Confidential Information

The investigation also determined that Jones and Yeboah likely shared confidential information with other bettors regarding their intent to receive yellow cards The New York Times.

No Impact on Match Outcomes

Despite the violations, MLS stated that there was no evidence to suggest that the betting activities affected the outcome of any matches AP News.

League Response and Commitment to Integrity

MLS Commissioner Don Garber emphasized the league’s unwavering commitment to maintaining the integrity of the competition. He stated that MLS will continue to enforce its policies, enhance educational efforts, and advocate for the elimination of betting on secondary events, such as yellow cards MLS Soccer.

Player Status at Time of Suspension

At the time of the suspensions, neither Jones nor Yeboah was under contract with an MLS club. Yeboah, a 2023 MLS Cup champion with the Columbus Crew, had recently signed with Qingdao Hainiu of China. Jones was released after two seasons with the Columbus Crew The Guardian.

Growing Concerns in US Sports

This case highlights a growing concern across US sports leagues following the increasing legalization of sports betting in numerous states.