Las weekends Kentucky Derby winner Medina Spirit has returned a positive drug test and could be disqualified from the race.
Medina Spirit has tested positive for elevated levels of betamethasone, trainer Bob Baffert announced on Sunday.
Baffert denied all wrongdoing and promised to be fully transparent with the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission during its investigation.
The failed post-race drug test, once more puts the practices of his Hall of Fame trainer Bob Baffert under scrutiny.
Churchill Downs was quick to take action following reports that Medina Spirit, who gave trainer Bob Baffert a record breaking seventh Kentucky Derby victory has returned a positive test..
“It is our understanding that Kentucky Derby winner Medina Spirit’s post-race blood sample indicated a violation of the Commonwealth of Kentucky’s equine medication protocols. The connections of Medina Spirit have the right to request a test of a split sample and we understand they intend to do so. To be clear, if the findings are upheld, Medina Spirit’s results in the Kentucky Derby will be invalidated and Mandaloun will be declared the winner.
“Failure to comply with the rules and medication protocols jeopardizes 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. Given the seriousness of the alleged offense, Churchill Downs will immediately suspend Bob Baffert, the trainer of Medina Spirit, from entering any horses at Churchill Downs Racetrack. We will await the conclusion of the Kentucky Horse Racing Commissions’ investigation before taking further steps.”
