Longtime NBC Sports host Mike Tirico was unexpectedly sidelined during the Kentucky Derby coverage on Saturday, May 3, 2025, due to a sudden allergic reaction. The incident unfolded shortly before the network's afternoon broadcast from Churchill Downs began, leaving both viewers and the broadcasting team shocked.
Tirico, who has been the face of NBC's Derby coverage since 2017, began feeling unwell shortly after 3 PM ET. NBC confirmed that he received immediate medical attention and is expected to make a full recovery. In his absence, fellow NBC Sports host Lindsay Czarniak stepped in to take over the hosting duties alongside analysts Randy Moss and Jerry Bailey.
Political correspondent Steve Kornacki continued his role, providing insights into the odds and betting trends live from the paddock. NBC praised the team's ability to adapt under pressure, thanking viewers for their understanding during the abrupt change in coverage.
In a post on social media, Tirico revealed that he experienced a "significant reaction" to his nut allergy. He expressed his frustration at missing the event, stating, "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. Especially Randy, Jerry & Ahmed Fareed. So lucky to have @SyracuseU fam step in and do such a great job."
This incident marks the first time Tirico has missed a Kentucky Derby since taking over from Bob Costas in 2017. The 151st annual Kentucky Derby continued as scheduled, with millions of viewers tuning in to watch the race unfold, despite the rain-soaked conditions.
The event featured a competitive field and a $5 million prize purse, with Sovereignty ultimately beating the betting favorite Journalism by one and a half lengths to claim victory. Ridden by Junior Alvarado, Sovereignty's win was a highlight amid the dramatic turn of events surrounding Tirico.
Bill Mott, Sovereignty's trainer, commented on the race, saying, "Fortunately, there was a lot of speed in the race. It set up well for us because they had an honest pace. When you have a good pace, the field strings out a little bit more, and it offers you an opportunity to drop in once they line up a little bit. It gives the outside horses a chance, and that's what happened."
Amid the excitement of the Derby, several celebrities were in attendance, including NFL star Aaron Rodgers, Olympic gymnast Simone Biles, and musician Machine Gun Kelly. Notably, Carolina Panthers receiver Xavier Legette also made an appearance, serving as an NFL correspondent for the event. Legette, who owns a stable of 14 horses, shared his passion for horse racing, stating, "I see it as like kind of a big investment. I was about five years old, and ever since I was a little boy, my uncle was bringing horses to my house, every year for my birthday. We would go out there to the stable on the weekend."
Despite the unexpected challenges, the 2025 Kentucky Derby proved to be a memorable event, showcasing both thrilling races and the resilience of the broadcasting team. As for Tirico, NBC has confirmed that he is resting comfortably and in stable condition, though it remains unclear if he will return for upcoming broadcasts this week.
The Kentucky Derby, often referred to as the "most exciting two minutes in sports," continues to captivate audiences with its rich history and tradition. This year’s race was no exception, drawing attention not only for the competition on the track but also for the unexpected twists off it.
As fans and viewers eagerly await updates on Tirico's recovery, the Derby's legacy as a premier sporting event remains intact, highlighting the unpredictability that defines both horse racing and live broadcasting.
