COLUMBUS – MLS announced today that former Columbus Crew players Derrick Jones and Yaw Yeboah have been handed lifetime MLS suspensions for violating MLS’ Gambling Policy. Both players had been placed on administrative leave before the league concluded the investigation.

Both players placed extensive bets on their own team during the 2024-2025 seasons, with one instance being Jones to receive a yellow card during a match in October of 2024, which he received.

MLS also came to the conclusion that both former Crew players shared confidential information with others, about their intent to being booked during matches.

Statement from MLS

“Major League Soccer remains steadfast in its commitment to match integrity. 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.” – MLS Commissioner Don Garber

Jones and Yeboah were part of the 2023 MLS Cup and 2024 Leagues Cup championship teams with the Crew, before Yeboah joined LAFC and Jones became a free agent.

Statement from Columbus Crew

“The Columbus Crew are proud of the reputation we’ve established in MLS and global soccer that’s rooted in respect and integrity throughout our organization. We fully condemn all actions and notions that aren’t aligned with these critical values for our Club and any individual’s activity contradicting the principles of fair competition that are pivotal to our team, league and sport.

The Crew — who strictly adhere to all MLS policies on educating and enforcing sports gambling regulations with team personnel — fully cooperated with the league since first learning about the inquiry regarding the players in question. Given the nature of the investigation, the Club defers all comment on its results and discipline to the league.”

Yeboah is currently rostered with Qingdao Hainiu of the Chinese Super League. Jones, is still without a team.