MLS Bans Two Former Players for Extensive Match Gambling
Major League Soccer (MLS) has imposed lifetime bans on former players Derrick Jones and Yaw Yeboah for engaging in extensive gambling on matches. The announcement was made by the league on Monday.
Background of the Players
Derrick Jones, aged 29, was with Columbus Crew, contributing in 23 matches during the 2024 and 2025 seasons. Yaw Yeboah, 28, played alongside Jones at Columbus before moving to Los Angeles FC in the previous year.
The Investigation
The investigation began in October when the MLS placed both players on administrative leave due to suspicious betting alerts received through its partners. Findings revealed that Jones and Yeboah extensively gambled during the 2024 and 2025 seasons, including wagers on their own games.
Specific Incidents
- In October 2024, both players placed a bet on Jones receiving a yellow card.
- Jones did indeed receive the yellow card, raising concerns of breaching match integrity.
- The findings indicated they likely shared insider information with other bettors.
MLS Commissioner’s Statement
MLS Commissioner Don Garber emphasized the league’s commitment to maintaining match integrity. He stated, “The League will continue to enforce its policies and enhance educational efforts to protect the integrity of our competition for clubs, players, and fans.”
Reactions from the Columbus Crew
The Columbus Crew condemned the actions of both players. They stated their commitment to adhering strictly to league policies regarding sports gambling. The team fully cooperated with the league during the investigation.
Previous Gambling Violations in MLS
Gambling issues are not new to MLS. In 2021, Felipe Hernandez of Sporting Kansas City was suspended for violating betting policies, and his contract was terminated in 2024. This highlights ongoing concerns about gambling within professional sports.
Broader Context of Sports Gambling
The issue of gambling, particularly prop bets, has affected multiple North American sports leagues since the legalization of sports betting. In 2023, two Cleveland Guardians pitchers faced charges related to pitch-rigging allegations tied to in-game prop bets.
Other Cases
- Jontay Porter, a former NBA player, received a lifetime ban in 2024 for violating betting rules.
- NBA gambling partners have also ceased offering certain betting options for players on 10-day or two-way contracts.
Upcoming MLS Season
The 2026 MLS season commenced last month and will run until November. A six-week break is scheduled this summer for the World Cup event.
