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yesterday

MLS Issues Lifetime Bans to Derrick Jones and Yaw Yeboah for Betting Violations

MLS points to yellow-card prop markets as a key integrity risk.

May 14, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles FC midfielder Yaw Yeboah (20) scores a goal against the Seattle Sounders during the second half at BMO Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Alex Gallardo-Imagn Images/File Photo
Nov 3, 2024; Harrison, New Jersey, USA; Columbus Crew midfielder Derrick Jones (5) warms up before a game against the New York Red Bulls in a 2024 MLS Cup Playoffs Round One match at Red Bull Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark Smith-Imagn Images/File Photo
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Alex Gallardo-Imagn Images

Overview

  • An MLS investigation found both players engaged in extensive soccer wagering during the 2024–2025 seasons, including bets tied to their own teams.
  • Investigators documented an October 19, 2024 match in which both bet on Derrick Jones to receive a yellow card, which he did.
  • The league said the pair likely shared confidential information with other bettors about plans to draw bookings, while finding no evidence that match outcomes were affected.
  • MLS placed the players on administrative leave in October 2025 after integrity partners flagged suspicious activity and retained Patterson Belknap Webb & Tyler LLP to conduct the probe.
  • Yaw Yeboah is now with Qingdao Hainiu after leaving LAFC, Derrick Jones is out of contract, and MLS will push jurisdictions to drop card-related wagers while expanding integrity education.