Fans now have more information as to why a familiar face abruptly left NBC’s set during its coverage of the Kentucky Derby. Veteran broadcaster Mike Tirico, who lives in Ann Arbor, confirmed what was said on the broadcast on Saturday: He had a significant reaction to a nut allergy.

Mike Tirico was, as usual, manning the anchor position for NBC at the 2025 Kentucky Derby ... and then he wasn't. As he announced on Saturday -- as did the broadcast -- Tirico had to deal with a nut allergy that knocked him out of commission.

Veteran NBC sportscaster Mike Tirico was forced to exit his ninth consecutive Kentucky Derby broadcast on Saturday. The reason? It was due to a severe reaction from a lifelong nut allergy, a condition he detailed on NBC’s Today show Monday morning.

The 151st Kentucky Derby took place Saturday afternoon, bringing high-stakes races and, of course, a host of fabulous outfits and mint juleps galore. Follow along for live coverage of the Kentucky Derby All eyes were peeled for the Run for the Roses,

This is a photo collection curated by AP photo editors.

Fans in bold hats and sharp suits gather at Churchill Downs for the 151st Kentucky Derby in Louisville, Ky. on Saturday. From the first race to the famed “Run for the Roses,” the day is filled with high-stakes action,