Mike Tirico, the well-known NBC Sports anchor, faced an unexpected health scare during his ninth consecutive Kentucky Derby broadcast on Saturday, May 3, 2025. Less than an hour into the event, Tirico was forced to exit the coverage due to a serious allergic reaction, prompting colleague Ahmed Fareed to step in as the anchor.
During an appearance on the Today show on Monday, May 5, Tirico detailed the incident, explaining that he has had a nut allergy his entire life and usually takes precautions to avoid exposure. Unfortunately, on Saturday, he accidentally consumed a food item that contained nuts. "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. It affects your breathing a little bit, so I wasn't feeling well, couldn't go on with the show," Tirico recounted.
After taking an EpiPen shot and receiving treatment from EMTs, he began to feel better by around 8 or 9 o'clock that evening. "Thank goodness Ahmed Fareed, who's great, was there and filled in more than ably; the show went on without us," Tirico added, expressing gratitude for his colleague's quick response.
The abrupt exit raised concerns among viewers, many of whom took to social media to discuss Tirico's condition during the broadcast. Comments ranged from worry about his health to questions about the severity of his symptoms. One viewer noted, "Why are we pretending like Mike Tirico is okay? Something is very wrong." Another remarked, "Time for NBC Sports to call in Ahmed Fareed for an obviously ailing Mike Tirico on the Kentucky Derby telecast. His voice is not good television right now."
Despite the incident, Tirico reassured fans that he is fine now and emphasized the importance of being aware of food allergies. "It's a real thing," he said. "My son has it. Lots of us know someone who has a food allergy, so read labels, and I do, as often as possible, to check. Sometimes it will say, 'Made in a factory where nuts are present.' You have to be really careful about that stuff."
Tirico's experience comes during National Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month, a time when many organizations aim to educate the public about the prevalence and seriousness of food allergies. With over 30 million Americans living with food allergies, Tirico's message about vigilance and awareness resonates with many. He urged viewers to ask questions when dining out and to be cautious about cross-contamination, especially when hosting gatherings.
In a light-hearted moment during his interview, Tirico joked about having left his EpiPen in a colleague's dressing room after filling in for him a few weeks prior. "I left my EpiPen in Craig's dressing room when I was there filling in for Craig a couple of weeks ago, so that's what really happened," he quipped, bringing some levity to an otherwise serious discussion.
Tirico's medical incident did not overshadow the Kentucky Derby itself, which was ultimately won by the horse Sovereignty. However, the event raised questions about the future of the horse's participation in the Preakness Stakes, the second leg of the Triple Crown. The horse's owner and trainer have yet to make a decision regarding Sovereignty's next race.
Looking ahead, Tirico is set to return to NBC's coverage for the Preakness Stakes on Saturday, May 17, 2025. He expressed eagerness to get back to work and continue his commentary on the Triple Crown races.
As one of the most recognizable faces in sports broadcasting, Tirico has built a successful career over nearly four decades, with a reported annual salary of $6 million and a net worth of approximately $14 million. His extensive experience includes serving as the lead host for NBC's Olympic coverage and play-by-play commentator for Sunday Night Football.
In the wake of the incident, Tirico has received an outpouring of support from fans and colleagues alike. He took to social media after the event to express his gratitude, 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. I'm doing fine now. Profound thanks to @ChurchillDowns for their care. And to our amazing @NBCSports horse racing family. Especially Randy, Jerry & Ahmed @fareed_nbc. So lucky to have @syracuseu fam step in and do such a great job."
As Tirico continues to navigate his career and personal health challenges, his story serves as a reminder of the importance of awareness and caution surrounding food allergies. His experience highlights the need for understanding and communication, particularly in social settings where food is involved.
