Hall of Fame trainer Bob Baffert's extended suspension from Churchill Downs was rescinded Friday, more than three years after he was banned for Medina Spirit's failed drug test following the Kentucky Derby.
Baffert issued a statement taking responsibility for Medina Spirit's failed drug test after the 2021 Kentucky Derby.
The horse was disqualified after the test and Mandaloun was named the winner of the race.
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Trainer Bob Baffert after winning the Sir Barton Stakes with jockey John Velazquez and horse Arabian Lion before the 148th running of the Preakness Stakes at Pimlico Race Course on May 20, 2023 in Baltimore. (Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
“I accept responsibility for Medina Spirit's positive test at the 2021 Kentucky Derby,” Baffert's statement said. “I am responsible for any substances found on the horses I train and have paid a heavy price with a three-year suspension and disqualification from Medina Spirit's performance.
“I understand and appreciate that Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission have taken steps to enforce the regulations they felt were necessary to protect the safety and integrity of horse racing and the reputation of the Kentucky Derby. My family and I want to put this behind us and get back to doing what we love to do without any further distractions or negativity. I look forward to returning to Churchill Downs and getting back to the Winner's Circle.”
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Jockey John Velazquez, left, and trainer Bob Baffert speak in the winner's circle after their horse, National Treasure, won the 148th running of the Preakness Stakes at Pimlico Race Course on May 20, 2023, in Baltimore. (Rob Carr/Getty Images)
Churchill Downs said it was satisfied with Baffert's statement and reinstated him.
“All parties agree that it is time to close this chapter and focus on the future. Baffert is welcome to return to any of CDI's racetracks, including our iconic Churchill Downs, and we wish him and his connections good luck in their future competitive endeavors,” said Churchill Downs Inc. CEO Bill Carstanjen.
A war of words broke out after Baffert was suspended, but his horses were able to compete in other legs of the Triple Crown. His horse, National Treasure, won the Preakness last year.
Trainer Bob Baffert watches the third race before the 149th running of the Preakness Stakes at Pimlico Race Course on May 18, 2024 in Baltimore. (Rob Carr/Getty Images)
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Baffert will return to Churchill Downs next year to try to officially claim his seventh win.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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