Trainer Bob Baffert had believed he had won the showcase event for a record seven times and said he was “shocked” by the failed test and insisted he had never administrated the substance. But adding, “I got the biggest gut punch in racing for something I didn’t do.”
The race that took place at Churchill Downs in front of 51,838 socially distanced spectators was the 147th edition of the race. Medina Spirit beat Mandaloun into second, just ahead of Hot Rod Charlie. The 5/2 favourite Essential Quality was fourth in Louisville.
After the race, a jubilant Baffert said: “When I saw him on an easy lead, I kept waiting for these horses to come at him, but Johnny had him in the perfect spot,” said 68-year-old Baffert.
“I’m the luckiest guy in the world. The record hasn’t sunk in yet. I’m so thrilled. You just never know if you are ever going to be back – it’s so difficult.”
In 2015 Baffert completed the US Triple Crown of Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes and Belmont Stakes, the first trainer to do so for 37 years, earning him legendary trainer status. His reputation soared three years later when his horse Justify also claimed the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes and Belmont Stakes.
However, on Sunday, the trainer revealed to reporters had tested positive for the anti-inflammatory drug betamethasone. The sample showed 21 picograms of the drug, which is above Kentucky racing’s threshold. Baffert disputed the results, saying:
“It’s such an injustice to the horse. I don’t feel embarrassed, I feel like I was robbed,” said the California-based trainer.
“But I’m going to fight it tooth and nail, because I owe it to the horse; I owe it to the owner and I owe it to our industry.
“There are problems in racing, but it’s not Bob Baffert. I don’t believe in conspiracy theories, but why is it happening to me?”
Baffert also revealed that Medina Spirit had not yet been officially disqualified, but this was still possible once further tests are completed. Churchill Downs has suspended the trainer from entering his horses.
Churchill Downs released a statement saying: “If the findings are upheld, Medina Spirit’s results in the Kentucky Derby will be invalidated, and Mandaloun will be declared winner,”
“Failure to comply with the rules and medication protocols jeopardises the safety of the horses and jockeys, the integrity of our sport and the reputation of the Kentucky Derby and all who participate. Churchill Downs will not tolerate it.”
Although Baffert has adamantly denied any knowledge of administrating the drug, the trainer has been involved in several failed drug tests. Despite promising to “do better” last year, two of his horses tested positive for lidocaine, a local anaesthetic, in April. The trainer was initially given a 15-day ban, but this was reduced to a $10,000 fine after he successfully appealed.
