LOUISVILLE, Ky. — It's been three years since Bob Baffert was blocked from running on any Churchill Downs racetracks. But that all changed on Friday.
Churchill Downs Inc. has announced it has rescinded Baffert's suspension effective immediately.
The famed horse trainer was originally suspended from racing at Churchill Downs after a failed drug test for Medina Spirit.
Medina Spirit originally won the Kentucky Derby in 2021, but was later disqualified.
Churchill Downs had originally suspended Baffert through the end of 2024, but their actions ended his suspension five months early.
“We are satisfied that Mr. Baffert has taken responsibility for his actions, completed a substantial penalty and is committed to running in full compliance with the rules and regulations going forward," Churchill Downs spokesperson Darren Rogers said. "All parties agree that it is time to bring this chapter to a close and focus on the future. Mr. Baffert is welcome to return to any of CDI’s racetracks, including our flagship Churchill Downs Racetrack, and we wish him and his connections good luck in their future competitive endeavors.”
This followed a statement Baffert released on social media on Friday:
“I accept responsibility for Medina Spirit’s positive test in the 2021 Kentucky Derby. I am responsible for any substance found in the horses that I train, and I have paid a very steep price with a three-year suspension and the disqualification of Medina Spirit’s performance. I understand and appreciate that Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission took steps to enforce the rules that they believed 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 anymore distraction or negativity. I very much look forward to returning to Churchill Downs and getting back to the Winner’s Circle.”