NBC sportscaster Mike Tirico leaves Kentucky Derby coverage with nut allergy

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) — NBC Sports host Mike Tirico said on social media he hates being a “late scratch” from Saturday’s 151st Kentucky Derby because of a “significant” nut allergy reaction during coverage of the marquee race at Churchill Downs.

Ahmed Fareed took over coverage for the veteran broadcaster, who was scheduled to host coverage of the first jewel of horse racing’s Triple Crown for the ninth time. Tirico left the storied track in late afternoon and returned to his hotel, an NBC Sports spokesman said.