MLS Issues Lifetime Bans to Derrick Jones & Yaw Yeboah in Betting Scandal Getty | Tom Hindle | Mar 10, 2026 05:51+06:00 Major League Soccer has issued lifetime bans to players Derrick Jones and Yaw Yeboah after an investigation found they placed bets on MLS matches—including games in which they participated—during the 2024 and 2025 seasons. The league announced the decision on Monday, stating that both players are prohibited from future participation in MLS. Neither is currently under contract with an MLS club. Lifetime Bans An extensive investigation, supported by law firm Patterson Belknap Webb & Tyler LLP, revealed that Jones and Yeboah repeatedly bet on MLS fixtures. In one instance, both wagered on Jones receiving a yellow card in a Columbus Crew vs. New York Red Bulls match. The league determined they colluded to ensure the booking occurred. The players were initially placed on administrative leave in October 2025. MLS’s Statement Commissioner Don Garber emphasized the league’s stance: “Major League Soccer remains steadfast in its commitment to match integrity. 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.” No Matches Rigged The investigation found no evidence that match outcomes were influenced by the bets. This case follows a similar incident in 2021 involving Sporting KC’s Felipe Hernandez, whose contract was terminated after he was found betting on MLS games. Further Careers for the Duo? Yeboah currently plays for Qingdao Hainiu in the Chinese Super League. Jones has not yet signed with a new club. Enjoyed this story? Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google for more reporting.
MLS Issues Lifetime Bans to Derrick Jones and Yaw Yeboah for Betting on Their Own Games
