Hall of Fame trainer Bob Baffert returns to Kentucky Derby after 3-year ban

Baffert addresses Derby suspension and return

Bob Baffert speaks with Mike Tirico about his 2021 banned substance violation, whether and how his team's operations have changed, returning to the Kentucky Derby, his legacy and more.

Bob Baffert Justifies Churchill Downs Suspension as 3-Year Kentucky Derby Suspension Lifted

“Who would’ve thought an ointment — an ointment — took down the Kentucky Derby winner?” Bob Baffert told ESPN’s Marty Smith in 2022. The Triple Crown-winning trainer said this nearly a year after Churchill Downs Inc. stripped his horse Medina Spirit of his Kentucky Derby title. Back then, the six-time Derby winner argued that he never got his “due process” in the controversy surrounding Medina Spirit failing a test the day after winning the 2021…

Hall of Fame trainer Bob Baffert returns to Kentucky Derby after 3-year ban

Legendary trainer Bob Baffert is back at Churchill Downs and has entered a horse in the Kentucky Derby for the first time in three years. His horse, Citizen Bull, is a 20-1 long shot to win the race on Saturday, May 3. Why was Bob Baffert banned by Churchill Downs? Baffert ruled the sport for 30 years, becoming its most successful trainer with a record-tying six Kentucky Derby-winning horses.  His first win came with Silver Charm in 1997. He’s a…

Bob Baffert's Path to a Historic 2025 Kentucky Derby Win

Legendary trainer Bob Baffert is poised to make a historic return to the Kentucky Derby in 2025 after a three-year suspension. Baffert, who was disqualified over Medina Spirit's failed drug test, is now eligible to enter horses again. With a win, he would break the tie for the most Derby victories, currently standing at six, alongside Ben Jones. His recent success in the Preakness positions him as a strong contender, aiming to reclaim his place …