Trainer Bob Baffert said Sunday morning Medina Spirit tested positive for betamethasone after winning the Kentucky Derby on May 1 at Churchill Downs, a result that ultimately could lead to the horse’s disqualification.
Baffert disputed the positive test result of 21 picograms, saying Medina Spirit “has never been treated with betamethasone,” which is an anti-inflammatory drug.
According to Kentucky Horse Racing Commission regulations, a second positive test – called a “split sample” – is required before a horse can be disqualified.
“Yesterday I got the biggest gut punch in racing for something that I didn’t do,” Baffert said. “It’s disturbing. It’s an injustice to the horse.”
Churchill Downs on Sunday released a statement clarifying the fact that Medina Spirit will be taken down as winner if a second positive test is returned.
"The connections of Medina Spirit have the right to request a test of a split sample and we understand they intend to do so," the statement reads. "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."
Further, the track has suspended Baffert from entering any horses at Churchill Downs, effective immediately.
Baffert said he still plans to enter Medina Spirit in Saturday’s Preakness at Pimlico in Baltimore.
Medina Spirit’s victory gave Baffert his seventh Kentucky Derby win, breaking a tie with Ben Jones for the most by a trainer in the race’s 147-year history.
Jason Frakes: 502-582-4046; [email protected]; Twitter: @KentuckyDerbyCJ.
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