With the Kansas City Royals and Sporting Kansas City, Patrick Mahomes was busy acquiring stakes. The latter was hailed as a coup for the MLS club. The Chiefs QB himself stated, “I am grateful for the opportunity to join Sporting Kansas City’s ownership team and strengthen my connection to the fans and the city I love.” Cliff Illig, Sporting KC’s principal owner, echoed this sentiment and praised Mahomes. But who knew things would go so wrong?

This dream partnership has hit a major bump in the road with the recent gambling scandal involving Sporting KC midfielder Felipe Hernandez.

According to reports, Hernandez has been placed on administrative leave for allegedly violating the league’s gambling policies–a jarring déjà vu moment, as the Colombian was previously suspended in 2021 for the same transgression. Back in 2021, he was suspended without pay for the remaining season after he reportedly violated gambling rules by the league. When an investigation was done by MLS, Hernandez indicated that he had a gambling addiction, and hence, wagered on two MLS games.

Hernandez’s 2022 reinstatement came with a clear caveat: “Continued abstinence from gambling,” a condition he appears to have flagrantly disregarded. This development has cast a pall over Mahomes’ involvement with the club, leaving fans wondering if the quarterback’s investment was a savvy move or a risky gamble that could potentially tarnish his reputation.

Did Hernandez’s second strike blow over Patrick Mahomes’ desire for a winning culture?

As the investigation into Hernandez’s alleged gambling violations continues, the fallout from this scandal extends far beyond the player’s individual circumstances. Jimmy Mack, a respected sports journalist, succinctly summed up the gravity of the situation, stating, “His career may be done.”