Bob Baffert Churchill Downs suspension lifted after three years away from Louisville track

Churchill Downs Incorporated has rescinded trainer Bob Baffert's suspension effective immediately, according to Churchill Downs.

“We are satisfied that Mr. Baffert has taken responsibility for his actions, completed a substantial penalty and is committed to running in full compliance with the rules and regulations going forward," Churchill Downs CEO Bill Carstanjen said via a news release. "All parties agree that it is time to bring this chapter to a close and focus on the future. Mr. Baffert is welcome to return to any of CDI’s racetracks, including our flagship Churchill Downs Racetrack, and we wish him and his connections good luck in their future competitive endeavors.”

Baffert was originally suspended after traces of betamethasone were found in 2021 Kentucky Derby winner Medina Spirit. Baffert initially denied giving betamethasone to Medina Spirit but ultimately discovered it was an ingredient used in a cream, Otomax, used to treat a rash on the horse’s hind end.

The suspension was then extended last year because of “continued concerns regarding the threat to the safety and integrity of racing he poses to CDI-owned racetracks," according to Churchill Downs. The extension kept Baffert out of the 150th Kentucky Derby.

He spoke about his absence at the Preakness Stakes and had hope that he'd be allowed to return to Churchill Downs soon. His hopes turned into reality Friday afternoon.

Baffert issued a statement accepting responsibility for the cause of the suspension while expressing gratitude for the suspension being lifted.

"I understand and appreciate that Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission took steps to enforce the rules that they believed were necessary to protect the safety and integrity of horse racing and the reputation of the Kentucky Derby," Baffert wrote in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter. "My family and I want to put this behind us and get back to doing what we love to do without anymore distraction or negativity. I very much look forward to returning to Churchill Downs and getting back to the Winner's Circle."

Jason Frakes contributed to this report.

Reach Louisville football, women's basketball and baseball beat writer Alexis Cubit at acubit@gannett.com and follow her on X at @Alexis_Cubit.