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Oct 10, 2023

Churchill Downs considers extension of trainer Bob Baffert's suspension

Churchill Downs is still considering whether to extend horse trainer Bob

Churchill Downs is still considering whether to extend horse trainer Bob Baffert's suspension from racing.

The track called a federal judge's dismissal of Baffert's lawsuit against Churchill Downs, William C. Carstanjen and R. Alex Rankin in a motion for summary judgment a win for the safety of horse racing in a Thursday release from track representatives. Baffert's lawsuit against Churchill Downs followed a 2021 suspension after Medina Spirit tested positive for a potential performance-enhancing drug.

More:Bob Baffert transfers his top contenders for 2023 Kentucky Derby: Here's what to know

"While he may choose to file baseless appeals, this completes the seemingly endless, arduous and unnecessary litigation proceedings instigated by Mr. Baffert," the release said.

Medina Spirit was the initial winner of the 2021 Kentucky Derby but was disqualified after a post-race blood test showed betamethasone in its system, according to previous Courier Journal reporting. The drug is legal as a therapeutic aid, but it's banned on and leading up to race day due to its performance-enhancement potential.

Medina Spirit later died after a workout in late 2021.

Baffert was suspended through the 2023 Spring meet, which includes the 2022 and 2023 Kentucky Derbys, due to five drug-related violations over the prior 12 months, previous Courier Journal reporting said.

U.S. District Judge Rebecca Grady Jennings, who granted the recent dismissal, also blocked Baffert's request for an injunction in February to enter the 2023 race, according to Courier Journal reporting.

Churchill Downs said it will announce a decision regarding Baffert's suspension after the two-year period is up in June.

Background:Bob Baffert hearing extended as trainer seeks injunction to end Churchill Downs suspension

Representation for Bob Baffert was not immediately available to provide a statement as of Sunday morning.

Reporters Jason Frakes, Andrew Wolfson and Jake Adams contributed. Contact reporter Rae Johnson at [email protected]. Follow them on Twitter at @RaeJ_33