Churchill Downs Inc. (CDI) announced on Monday the extension of trainer Bob Baffert's suspension through 2024. This decision bars Baffert from entering horses at CDI-owned tracks, including the Kentucky Derby, for another year. CDI cited "ongoing concerns" regarding the safety and integrity of racing at its facilities, referencing Baffert's "false narrative" surrounding the 2021 Kentucky Derby winner Medina Spirit's failed drug test. The horse was subsequently disqualified.

CDI emphasized Baffert's agreement to abide by Kentucky racing rules, highlighting the failed drug test as a clear violation. The company's statement expressed a lack of trust in Baffert's ability to avoid future misconduct, given his unwillingness to accept responsibility for multiple drug test failures in high-profile races. CDI plans to re-evaluate Baffert's status after 2024.

Baffert responded with a statement on social media, expressing confusion over the extended suspension and maintaining his innocence. He reiterated his commitment to uncovering the source of Medina Spirit's positive test, attributing it to a topical ointment used for a skin infection, not an injection. Baffert insisted that the ointment's use is permitted under the rules and that the matter is currently under review by the Racing Commission. He refuted CDI's claim of a "false narrative," stating he has remained silent on the issue for an extended period.

Earlier this year, Baffert returned to the Triple Crown, winning the Preakness Stakes with National Treasure, his eighth victory in the race. This followed a 2022 suspension from the Preakness and Belmont Stakes, honoring a 90-day ban in Kentucky. Baffert's Preakness win was overshadowed by the tragic euthanization of another horse he trained, which suffered a broken leg during the race.

Following his Preakness win, Baffert expressed gratitude to the owners who supported him through the controversies of recent years.