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Bob Baffert Returns to Kentucky Derby After Three-Year Suspension

The legendary trainer, aiming for a record seventh win, faces a mix of support and scrutiny as he enters two horses in the 151st Derby.

Bob Baffert, trainer of Kentucky Derby winner Medina Spirit, stands near the track at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, U.S. April 28, 2021. Picture taken April 28, 2021. REUTERS/Bryan Woolston/ File Photo
Nov 2, 2021; Del Mar, CA, USA; Medina Spirit, trained by Bob Baffert, during workouts at Del Mar Race Track. Ray Acevedo-USA TODAY Sports/ File Photo
Trainer Bob Baffert has two horses competing in the Kentucky Derby: Citizen Bull and Rodriguez.
Trainer Bob Baffert stands with Rodriguez, one of his two entries in the 151st Kentucky Derby as he returns to the race after a three-year ban by Churchill Downs

Overview

  • Bob Baffert is back at Churchill Downs for the first time since his 2021 suspension over Medina Spirit's disqualification for a drug test violation.
  • The trainer has two horses in this year’s Kentucky Derby: Rodriguez, with 12-1 odds, and Citizen Bull, at 20-1 odds, following a poor post position draw.
  • Baffert accepted responsibility for Medina Spirit’s positive test, attributing it to an ointment and acknowledging the rule violation.
  • Prominent trainers, including D. Wayne Lukas and Mark Casse, have expressed support for Baffert’s return, framing his suspension as a resolved issue.
  • The Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) has since tightened medication rules, with its CEO noting that Baffert has adhered to these stricter standards since his suspension.