Major League Soccer (MLS) has handed lifetime bans to former player Yaw Yeboah and Derrick Jones for violating the league’s betting policy.
The duo, neither of whom is currently under contract with an MLS club, were found guilty of extensive gambling on soccer, including betting on their own teams, during the 2024 and 2025 seasons.
According to MLS, the investigation revealed that Yeboah and Jones bet on specific events, including a match where Jones was involved, and even shared confidential information with other bettors about their intent to draw yellow cards.
Although no evidence suggested these activities affected match outcomes, MLS Commissioner Don Garber emphasized the league’s commitment to maintaining match integrity.
“Major League Soccer remains steadfast in its commitment to match integrity,” Garber said. “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”
Yeboah, a Ghanaian winger, had been with Los Angeles FC since January 2025 but mutually terminated his contract in January 2026.
He had previously played for Columbus Crew and has represented Ghana internationally. Jones, a midfielder, was with Columbus Crew before his contract ended.
The lifetime bans serve as a strong message to players about the seriousness of betting on league matches.
