Kentucky Derby morning line favorite Forte is out of the race, according to multiple media outlets on the ground at Churchill Downs, following an examination by state veterinarians Saturday morning.
The Todd Pletcher trainee galloped at around 7:45 a.m. and was seen by state veterinarians afterwards. Dr. Nick Smith watched the horse jog multiple times and consulted with Pletcher and owner Mike Repole before the decision was made to scratch the horse.
Rumors had swirled for the past several days on social media about Forte's status, but Pletcher told the Louisville Courier-Journal on Friday that the colt seemed fine and plans were full steam ahead.
With the defection, the Derby field is now reduced to 18. Skinner was scratched on Friday due to an elevated temperature.
Forte came to the race from a gutsy win in the Grade 1 Florida Derby, which had followed an impressive performance in the G2 Fountain of Youth and before that, the Breeders' Cup Juvenile. He has won six of his seven lifetime starts.
Forte takes a jog for the state vet as his Derby fate remains in limbo. pic.twitter.com/7H9IfZP6bY
— Will Clark (@WClark_TV) May 6, 2023
BREAKING: Todd Pletcher and Mike Repole being told by the state racing commission vet that Derby favorite Forte has been scratched. The Derby field is now down to 18. pic.twitter.com/wMfAvTg7uV
— Will Clark (@WClark_TV) May 6, 2023
This is a breaking news story and more information will be added as it becomes available.
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