BREAKING NEWSMike Tirico forced to step away from NBC's Kentucky Derby coverage due to sudden illness READ MORE: FanDuel racing expert gives his best Kentucky Derby tips By MAX WINTERS Published: 21:35 BST, 3 May 2025 | Updated: 21:39 BST, 3 May 2025 Legendary NBC commentator Mike Tirico was forced to step away from the network's coverage of the Kentucky Derby on Saturday due to sudden illness. Fans shared their concern for the 58-year-old's health earlier on in the broadcast and then fellow broadcaster Ahmed Fareed suddenly jumped in to take his place after a commercial break. 'Mike, as you may have heard, feeling a little under the weather right now,' Fareed said. 'So I'm gonna step in and take over for a bit. It's not like baseball—if the closer comes in, the starter can come back in the game.' It remains to be seen whether Tirico is able to return for the big race - which is due to start at 6:57pm ET. Tirico is one of the most recognizable faces in sports broadcasting after his quarter-century affiliated with ESPN and then his switch to his current employer in 2016. Mike Tirico was forced to step away from NBC's coverage of the Kentucky Derby due to illness Tirico's rise within NBC has also seen him take the role of NFL play-by-play announcer for the network from the legendary Al Michaels and he will lead coverage of the NBA starting next season. In building his career and covering nearly every major sporting event over his 38-year career, Tirico has built up an impressive net worth and yearly salary. Tirico makes $6million annually and has a net worth of $14million, per Parade. The 58-year-old has also made strides outside of sports broadcasting with NBC, filling in as a host on 'Today' during Easter week. Tirico has been the lead in-studio host for every Olympic Games for NBC dating back to the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro. Tirico's responsibilities also include hosting all three events in horse racing's Triple Crown, with the first in this year's trifecta, the Kentucky Derby, taking place on Saturday. As much as Tirico makes per year, he is not close to the top earner in sports broadcasting. That title belongs to Tom Brady, who is making $37.5million a year on his deal with Fox Sports as their top color commentator. Share or comment on this article: Mike Tirico forced to step away from NBC's Kentucky Derby coverage due to sudden illness Add comment