Major League Soccer (MLS) has imposed lifetime bans on Derick Jones and Yaw Yeboah for engaging in betting activities related to MLS matches while actively playing in the league, the organization confirmed on Monday afternoon. Both players placed bets on multiple games over the 2024 and 2025 seasons, including matches in which they participated, leading to their permanent exclusion from the league after a thorough investigation.
Details of the Betting Violations and Investigation Findings
The banned players were found to have extensively wagered on MLS fixtures during their tenures. The inquiry, conducted with assistance from the law firm Patterson Belknap Webb & Tyler LLP, detailed a two-season period in which betting occurred. Among the violations was a coordinated effort where Jones and Yeboah bet on Jones receiving a yellow card during a game between Columbus and the New York Red Bulls, and colluded to ensure that this event took place.
Following the findings, both Jones and Yeboah were placed on administrative leave in October 2025 before the league finalized their bans.
MLS Reaffirms Commitment to Match Integrity
The league issued a statement emphasizing its dedication to maintaining the integrity of its competitions.
“Major League Soccer remains steadfast in its commitment to match integrity,”
said MLS Commissioner Don Garber.
“The League will continue to enforce its policies, enhance education efforts, and advocate for the elimination of yellow card wagering in all states to protect the integrity of our competition for clubs, players, and fans.”
Investigation Finds No Evidence of Match-Fixing
Despite the serious violations, the investigation concluded that no game outcomes were altered as a result of the players’ betting activities. This incident follows a similar case recorded in 2021 involving Felipe Hernandez of Sporting KC, who was found to have bet on MLS matches. Hernandez’s contract was terminated three years later, and he has not secured a long-term professional contract since.
Future Prospects for the Suspended Players
While Jones and Yeboah have been banned from MLS competition indefinitely, their future playing careers may still continue outside the league. Yeboah currently plays in China’s top division for Qingdao Hainiu, whereas Jones is currently without a team. The bans specifically bar their participation in MLS clubs, but do not preclude opportunities elsewhere in professional soccer.
