MLS: two former players handed lifetime bans for illegal betting | OneFootball

MLS: two former players handed lifetime bans for illegal betting

MLS: two former players handed lifetime bans for illegal betting

Major League Soccer (MLS) has taken a firm stand in its battle against illegal betting. The North American league announced lifetime bans for two former players, Derrick Jones and Yaw Yeboah, after they were found guilty of betting on football matches, including games involving their own teams.

According to an official MLS statement, an internal investigation revealed that both players repeatedly engaged in sports betting activities during the 2024 and 2025 seasons. The probe uncovered significant wagers placed on league matches—a practice strictly prohibited by league regulations.

After reviewing the investigation's findings, MLS determined that the players' actions represented a serious breach of sporting integrity. "The players placed extensive bets on football matches, including those involving their own teams," the league specified in its disciplinary ruling.

This sanction—the harshest allowed under league rules—underscores MLS's commitment to safeguarding the credibility of its competitions amid the rise of sports betting. Both former players are now permanently barred from any activity related to the league.

The case has reignited debate over the regulation of betting in professional football and the risks such practices pose to the integrity of the sport.