Kentucky Derby: NBC’s Mike Tirico leaves broadcast booth due to illness
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NBC’s Kentucky Derby report missed a key figure when it was the lead broadcaster Mike Tillico I had to get off the set on Saturday.
On Saturday afternoon, Ahmed Faird entered Tirico’s relief and announced that Tirico had it. Unspecified illness.
“Mike may have heard of it, but I’m feeling a little under the weather right now, so I’m going to step in and take over a bit,” Faird said.
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Sportscaster Mike Tirico will be holding the Golden Goggle Awards at Fauna Forum Miami Beach, Florida on December 7th, 2021. (Michael Reeves/Getty Images)
Fareed also suggested that Tirico could return to the booth later.
“It’s not like baseball. Once Closer comes in, the starter can return to the game. So when Mike feels better, he’ll come back to this seat,” Faird said.
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Before Tirico’s exit, many social media fans pointed out that the station was buzzing.
Tirico has been leading the triple crown coverage of NBC Sports since 2017. The nine-year run is the longest of the lead broadcasters since Bob Costas ran in 2001-2018.
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However, it is unclear whether he will make it in time for this year’s race.
The 151st Kentucky Derby run is scheduled for 7:02 PM ET.
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