MLS Cracks Down with Lifetime Bans on Derrick Jones and Yaw Yeboah

Major League Soccer has dealt a significant blow to its gambling policy violators, issuing lifetime bans to midfielder Derrick Jones and winger Yaw Yeboah as announced on Monday. Both players were found guilty of engaging in extensive gambling activities, with bets placed on their own matches during the 2024 and 2025 seasons.

The league's investigation highlighted violations during Jones’ time at Columbus Crew and Yeboah's stints with both the Crew and Los Angeles FC. In a particular match against New York Red Bulls, the duo allegedly bet on Jones receiving a yellow card, which indeed transpired, raising further concerns about the integrity of the games.

Both players faced provisional suspensions in October 2025. While Yeboah has since moved to the Chinese Super League, Jones is currently without a club. In response to these events, MLS Commissioner Don Garber reaffirmed the league's commitment to stringent policy enforcement, enhanced educational efforts, and advocated for the ban of wagering on yellow cards.