MLS Issues Lifetime Bans to Jones and Yeboah for Betting

In the United States, MLS has issued lifetime bans to midfielder Derrick Jones (former Columbus Crew player) and winger Yaw Yeboah (former Los Angeles player) for betting on soccer matches, including games involving their own teams during the 2024 and 2025 seasons, the MLS press service reports.

Investigation into MLS Players’ Betting Activity

After receiving suspicious betting alerts through its integrity partners, MLS launched an investigation. The league hired the law firm Patterson Belknap Webb & Tyler LLP to conduct the review.

During the investigation, Derrick Jones and Yaw Yeboah were placed on administrative leave. After reviewing the findings, the league concluded that both players had placed numerous bets on soccer matches during the 2024 and 2025 seasons, including matches involving their own teams.

Bet on a Yellow Card in an MLS Match

Incident in the October 19, 2024 Match

The investigation confirmed one incident in which both players, while teammates at Columbus Crew, bet on Derrick Jones receiving a yellow card in a match on October 19, 2024.

Jones did receive a yellow card during that game.

Sharing Information with Third Parties

The investigation also found that the players likely shared confidential information with other bettors about their intention to receive yellow cards.

No evidence was found indicating that these betting activities affected the outcome of any matches.

MLS Position and Current Status of the Players

MLS Commissioner Don Garber stated that the league will continue to strictly enforce its rules and policies related to gambling.

According to the league, the suspension applies only to MLS competitions. At the time the decision was announced, Yaw Yeboah was already playing for the Chinese club Qingdao Hainiu, while Derrick Jones remains a free agent.