Kentucky Derby: NBC’s Mike Tirico leaves broadcast booth with illness

NBC’s Kentucky Derby coverage was missing a key figure when lead broadcaster Mike Tirico had to step off set Saturday. 

Ahmed Fareed entered in relief of Tirico Saturday afternoon, announcing Tirico had an unspecified illness. 

“Mike, as you may have heard, feeling a little under the weather right now, so I’m going to step in, take over for a bit,” Fareed said. 

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Sportscaster Mike Tirico hosts the Golden Goggle Awards at Faena Forum Miami Beach Dec. 7, 2021, in Miami Beach, Fla. (Michael Reaves/Getty Images)

Fareed also suggested Tirico may return to the booth later. 

“It is not like baseball. If the closer comes in, the starter can come back in the game. So, rest assured when Mike’s feeling better, he’ll be back right here in this seat,” Fareed said.

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Prior to Tirico’s exit, many fans on social media pointed out that the broadcaster sounded off. 

Tirico has led NBC Sports’ Triple Crown coverage since 2017. The nine-year run is the longest of any lead broadcaster since Bob Costas had an 18-year run from 2001-18.

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But it is unclear if he will return in time for this year’s race. 

The 151st running of the Kentucky Derby has a post time scheduled for 7:02 p.m. ET.

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