Mike Tirico, the veteran NBC Sports anchor, made headlines for an unexpected reason during the 2025 Kentucky Derby. On May 3, 2025, just before the highly anticipated race, Tirico was forced to step away from his hosting duties due to a severe allergic reaction to nuts.
Viewers tuning in to the 151st Kentucky Derby noticed something was off as Tirico's voice sounded hoarse and he appeared visibly unwell. Shortly after 3 p.m. ET, Ahmed Fareed, who stepped in as the replacement host, informed audiences that Tirico was feeling "under the weather" and might return later. However, the situation quickly became clearer as the broadcast continued.
That evening, it was revealed that Tirico suffered a significant allergic reaction due to accidental nut exposure, a known allergy he has dealt with for years. "I ate something that had a nut in it and had a nut allergy, causing your throat and your nose all that stuff to kind of clog up and swell," Tirico explained during a remote appearance on NBC’s TODAY show on May 5. He added, "It affects your breathing a little bit, so I wasn’t feeling well, couldn’t go on with the show, took an EpiPen shot, got treated by EMTs, felt better about 8, 9 o’clock came along, but it takes a long while to get out of your system."
The incident, which occurred during Allergy and Asthma Awareness Month, highlighted the realities of food allergies, a growing concern for many Americans. Tirico used the moment to emphasize the importance of food allergy awareness, stating, "There’s a possibility for cross-contamination. Restaurants are great about it now, folks, so ask, inquire, be curious and be courteous." He also shared that his son suffers from food allergies, urging everyone to read food labels carefully.
Despite the unexpected scare, the broadcast continued smoothly under Fareed's guidance, and the race itself delivered a surprise ending. Sovereignty claimed victory over the favored horse, Journalism, finishing one and a half lengths ahead in wet and muddy conditions. The race was not only a highlight of the day but also a testament to the excitement and unpredictability that the Kentucky Derby is known for.
Tirico, who has been the face of NBC’s Kentucky Derby coverage since 2017, expressed gratitude towards the Churchill Downs medical team and his NBC colleagues for their quick response during the incident. He later posted on social media, "Hate being a scratch after making the starting gate @KentuckyDerby. Just a significant reaction to my nut allergy… I’m doing fine now."
As a key voice in NBC’s Sunday Night Football and NBA coverage, Tirico's professionalism and commanding presence have made him a fan favorite for nearly two decades. This incident serves as a reminder that even seasoned broadcasters can face health challenges unexpectedly, underscoring how quickly things can change on live television.
Throughout the day, social media users shared their concern for Tirico, noting that he did not seem to be his usual self during the broadcast. Comments ranged from worries about his health to admiration for his long-standing contributions to sports broadcasting. "Mike Tirico sounds like he should be in bed sleeping, not covering the Derby," one user tweeted, while another remarked, "Why are we pretending like Mike Tirico is ok? Something is very wrong."
Even with the drama surrounding Tirico's exit, the Kentucky Derby remained a star-studded event. Celebrities such as Aaron Rodgers, Simone Biles, and Machine Gun Kelly were spotted in the grandstands, adding to the glamour of the day. Carolina Panthers receiver Xavier Legette, who owns 14 personal horses, also made headlines, sharing his aspirations to add a racehorse to his stable.
As the dust settles from the Derby, Tirico's fans can breathe a sigh of relief knowing he is on the mend. His commitment to raising awareness about food allergies and the importance of safety in dining situations resonates with many. With a career spanning nearly two decades and a reputation for excellence, Tirico is expected to return to his normal schedule soon, continuing to be a beloved figure in sports broadcasting.
In the meantime, the Kentucky Derby continues to thrive as a premier event in the horse racing calendar, showcasing not only thrilling races but also the resilience and spirit of those involved. As for Tirico, his health scare serves as a powerful reminder of the need for vigilance surrounding food allergies and the importance of community support during challenging times.
