Sporting Kansas City midfielder Felipe Hernandez has been placed on “leave” by the Major League Soccer (MLS) organization after being found in violation of the league’s strict anti-gambling policy.
Hernandez, a promising young talent who had been making a name for himself with impressive performances on the pitch, was caught wagering on MLS matches, which is strictly prohibited by the league. The 23-year-old, who signed with Sporting KC in 2019, has quickly become a fan favorite for his technical skills and creativity on the ball.
In a statement released by the club, Sporting KC confirmed that Hernandez had been placed on leave pending an investigation into the matter. The team expressed its disappointment in Hernandez’s actions and reiterated its commitment to upholding the values and rules set forth by MLS.
“Sporting Kansas City has a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to gambling on MLS matches,” the statement read. “We take these allegations very seriously and will cooperate fully with the league in its investigation.”
MLS has strict rules in place to protect the integrity of the game and ensure fair competition. Gambling on matches by players, coaches, or any other personnel is strictly prohibited and can result in severe penalties, including fines, suspensions, or even permanent bans from the league.
Hernandez’s violation of the anti-gambling policy comes as a shock to many, as he had been seen as a rising star in the MLS. His performances on the pitch had earned him a call-up to the U.S. national team’s U-23 squad, and many had high hopes for his future in the sport.
While Sporting KC fans are disappointed by Hernandez’s actions, they are also hopeful that the young midfielder will learn from this mistake and come back stronger than ever. The team has a strong support system in place to help Hernandez navigate this challenging time and get back on track.
As the investigation into Hernandez’s violation continues, fans and teammates alike will be watching closely to see how the situation unfolds. In the meantime, Sporting KC will continue to focus on their upcoming matches and work towards a successful season, with or without Hernandez in the lineup.