After a second drug test of Kentucky Derby winner Medina Spirit returned positive for the restricted substance betamethasone, Churchill Downs has suspended trainer Bob Baffert for two years.
It made the announcement Wednesday afternoon following reports earlier Wednesday of the second positive test. Baffert's ban extends through the 2023 spring season at Churchill Downs, meaning Baffert and any trainers affiliated with Bob Baffert Racing Stables are barred from the next two Kentucky Derbies.
CDI: Baffert's 'reckless practices ... will not be tolerated'
Churchill Downs CEO Bill Carstanjen cited Baffert's "repeated failures" in announcing the ban.