Hall of Fame trainer Bob Baffert’s long-term suspension from Churchill Downs was revoked Friday, more than three years after he was suspended after Medina Spirit failed a drug test after the Kentucky Derby.
Baffert released a statement taking responsibility for Medina Spirit’s failed drug test following the 2021 Kentucky Derby.
After inspection, the horse was disqualified and Mandaloon was named the winner of the race.
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Trainer Bob Baffert, winner of the Sir Burton Stakes, with jockey John Velazquez and his horse Arabian Lion ahead of the 148th Preakness Stakes at Pimlico Race Course on May 20, 2023 in Baltimore. (Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
“I take responsibility for Medina Spirit’s positive test at the 2021 Kentucky Derby,” Baffert said in a statement. “I am responsible for any substances found in any horse I train. I have paid a very high price with a three-year suspension and Medina Spirit’s disqualification from racing.”
“I understand and appreciate that Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Racing Commission have taken the steps to enforce the rules they believe are necessary to protect the safety and integrity of horse racing and the reputation of the Kentucky Derby. My family and I look forward to putting this incident behind us and resuming doing what we love without any further distractions or negativity. I look forward to returning to Churchill Downs and back to the winner’s circle.”
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Jockey John Velazquez, left, and trainer Bob Baffert talk in the winner’s circle after their horse National Treasure won the 148th Preakness Stakes on May 20, 2023, at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore. (Rob Carr/Getty Images)
Churchill Downs said it was satisfied with Baffert’s statement and had reinstated him.
“All involved agree that the time has come to close this chapter and look to the future. Mr. Baffert is welcomed back to any of our CDI tracks, including our flagship Churchill Downs, and we wish Mr. Baffert and his team the best in their future competitive endeavors,” Churchill Downs CEO Bill Carstangen said.
The altercation continued after Baffert was suspended, but his horses were allowed to compete in the other Triple Crown races. His horse National Treasure won the Preakness Stakes last year.
Trainer Bob Baffert watches the third race of the 149th Preakness Stakes on May 18, 2024 at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore. (Rob Carr/Getty Images)
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Baffert will return to Churchill Downs next year looking to claim his seventh official victory.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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