MLS issues lifetime bans to Derrick Jones, Yaw Yeboah in betting scandal after duo bet on their own games

The duo both gambled extensively on MLS fixtures while they were playing in the league, MLS found after an extensive investigation conducted in part by law firm Patterson Belknap Webb & Tyler LLP. Their investigation concerned a two-season period for the duo, including one instance where both players bet on Jones to receive a yellow card in a fixture between Columbus and the Red Bulls. MLS determined that the players had colluded to ensure that Jones did indeed get booked in that game.

Jones and Yeboah were initially placed on administrative leave in October 2025. 

The league outlined its strong commitment to preventing gambling in a statement: 

“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.”

The investigation, however, did not find any evidence that outcomes of games were influenced by bets made by either player. It was caught in a similar situation in 2021, when Sporting KC's Felipe Hernandez was found to have been betting on MLS games. His contract was terminated three years later, and he has not held a long-term contract in soccer since. 

The two players banned in the scandal, though, may yet have careers ahead of them. Yeboah now plays in China's first tier with Qingdao Hainiu. Jones, though, has not found a new club.