Trainer Bob Baffert Ends Medina Spirit's Kentucky Derby Appeal
By Owen Mitchell
Published January 23, 2024
Renowned trainer Bob Baffert has announced on social media that he has decided to halt his appeal of Medina Spirit's disqualification as the 2021 Kentucky Derby winner. This decision comes after the late colt tested positive for the steroid betamethasone following the Derby, leading to his disqualification. In his announcement, Baffert mentioned that he has requested his legal team to cease the appeal process.
Background on Medina Spirit's Disqualification
Medina Spirit was disqualified as the Kentucky Derby winner after failing a postrace drug test that revealed the presence of betamethasone, a legal substance in Kentucky but prohibited on race day. As a result, the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission overturned Medina Spirit's victory and declared runner-up Mandaloun as the new champion. Following the failed test, Baffert faced a two-year suspension from Churchill Downs, which was later extended through the end of 2024, preventing his participation in the 150th Derby on May 4.
Baffert's Decision and Acknowledgments
In his statement, Baffert expressed his intention to shift his focus towards the current and future prospects within the sport of horse racing. He conveyed his gratitude to the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission and Churchill Downs for considering his perspective. Additionally, Baffert acknowledged the positive impact of the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) on the sport, highlighting the changes and clarity it has brought to horse racing.
Medina Spirit's Tragic End and Baffert's Recent Success
Tragically, Medina Spirit passed away in December 2021 following a workout in California. Despite this loss, Baffert made a comeback in the Triple Crown and achieved victory in the Preakness with National Treasure. However, the triumph was marred by the euthanization of another one of Baffert's entries, Havnameltdown, due to a leg injury at Pimlico Race Course.
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