Bob Baffert Sends Powerful Message Amidst Disaster at Kentucky Derby

When Bob Baffert was suspended by the Kentucky Derby in 2021, Bill Carstanjen, CEO of Churchill Downs Inc., called the trainer’s actions “Reckless practices and substance violations“. The time has been served, and the record six-time Derby-winning Baffert is less than 24 hours away from returning to the coveted racecourse. However, it seems like the tumultuous times have given the 72-year-old new life lessons, and he’s gained new perspectives to forge ahead.

In 2021, Baffert won his seventh Kentucky Derby with Medina Spirit. Subsequently, a lawsuit revealed that the horse tested positive for betamethasone, and the CDI suspended the trainer and revoked his Derby title. The suspension was later extended, which kept Bob away from the “Winner’s Circle” all the way to 2024. But now he’s back. Well, in a few hours, technically, and he’s all about looking ahead.

The Associated Press posted on X on May 2, sharing Bob Baffert’s message ahead of the 151st Kentucky Derby. “As a horse trainer, what you learn is that you can’t, you know, it’s not good to look back at what’s already happened. You need to stay focused on what’s in front of you at all times,” the celebrity trainer said. Noting that the sport has its ups and downs, Baffert further said, “…what’s happened in the last three years, that’s all been put behind me, and I’m focusing on what’s in front of me, because you can’t let that bother you.”

Six-time Kentucky Derby winning trainer Bob Baffert returns for the first time since serving a three-year suspension. He was punished for winner Medina Spirit’s failed post-race drug test in 2021. pic.twitter.com/wG9cYIQ2d9

— The Associated Press (@AP) May 2, 2025

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