NBC Sports anchor Mike Tirico abruptly departed from the network’s coverage of the Kentucky Derby today after experiencing a “significant reaction” to his nut allergy.
The exit came earlier today and as reports about Tirico’s illness drew concern from viewers Saturday afternoon, the veteran newscaster took to X with a statement about what happened, thanking colleagues for their support.
Hate being a scratch after making the starting gate @KentuckyDerby. Just a significant reaction to my nut allergy. If you have one you know how it can knock you down.
Profound thanks to @ChurchillDowns for their care. And to our amazing @nbcsports horse racing family.…
— MikeTirico (@miketirico) May 3, 2025
“Hate being a scratch after making the starting gate @KentuckyDerby,” he began. “Just a significant reaction to my nut allergy. If you have one you know how it can knock you down.”
He continued in the statement, shouting out Churchill Downs — the horse racing complex and famed Louisville locale home to the longest continually held sporting event in the U.S. — as well as his coworkers.
“Profound thanks to @ChurchillDowns for their care. And to our amazing @nbcsports horse racing family. Especially Randy [Moss], Jerry [Bailey] & Ahmed Fareed So lucky to have @SyracuseU fam step in and do such a great job,” he concluded.
Previously, TMZ reported that Fareed took over the broadcast circa 3 p.m. EDT, saying, “Mike, as you may have heard, is a little under the weather right now.” He didn’t elaborate further at the time.
Fellow TV personality, Louisville-based Terry Meiners, sent Tirico well wishes, writing online, “Feel better soon, Mike Tirico. The Ironman of @NBCSports is off of continuing @KentuckyDerby coverage due to illness. Mike is loved at @ChurchillDowns and all around the sports world.”
One of the preeminent and prestigious horse races in the world, the 151st edition of the Kentucky Derby — often called The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports — features a weekend full of events drawing celebrities, athletes, enthusiasts and, of course, the chicest hats and outfits. Dating back to 1875, the event is held annually on the first Saturday in May.
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