Los Angeles Times

Baffert Denied Injunction for 2024 Kentucky Derby

Trainer Won’t Have Horses in Race Despite Court Filing

Churchill Downs Maintains Suspension After 2021 Winner’s Disqualification

In a setback for Hall of Fame trainer Bob Baffert, a Jefferson County judge has denied his request for an injunction that would have allowed him to enter horses in the 2024 Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs.

Churchill Downs tacked on an additional year to Baffert’s two-year suspension from the race after his 2021 Kentucky Derby winner, Medina Spirit, tested positive for a banned substance. The positive test resulted in the horse’s disqualification and Baffert’s suspension from the race.

Baffert has consistently denied any wrongdoing and has appealed the suspension. However, the judge’s ruling means that he will not be able to enter any horses in the 2024 Derby unless the suspension is overturned on appeal.

A decision on whether Baffert will be allowed to enter horses in the 2025 Derby is expected in the coming weeks.

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