Trainer Bob Baffert suspended, banned from entering horses in Belmont

Kentucky Derby winner Medina Spirit and also Concert Tour, both trained by horseracing legend Bob Baffert, were cleared to run in Saturday's Preakness after Medina Spirit tested positive for the steroid betamethasone following the Triple Crown's first leg. 

However, the New York Racing Association announced Monday that it has suspended Baffert and temporarily banned him from entering horses at racetracks in the state. Thus, Medina Spirit is prohibited from competing in the Belmont Stakes on June 5. 

"In order to maintain a successful thoroughbred racing industry in New York, NYRA must protect the integrity of the sport for our fans, the betting public and racing participants," NYRA President and CEO Dave O'Rourke said, according to the Associated Press (h/t ESPN). "That responsibility demands the action taken today in the best interests of thoroughbred racing." 

The AP added that the fact Baffert "has had five violations involving impermissible levels of medication in his horses over the past 13 months" contributed to the NYRA's decision. 

Medina Spirit finished third in the Preakness. 

Baffert previously explained via a released statement that an antifungal ointment used on Medina Spirit contained the banned substance. The Derby victory could be voided if a second test also comes back positive for the steroid.