Alan Brazil Misses Cheltenham Show Again as Stand-in Issues Health Update
TalkSPORT breakfast host Alan Brazil has been absent from the airwaves for two consecutive days during the station's coverage of the Cheltenham Festival, with stand-in presenter Shebahn Aherne providing a health update on his condition. Brazil, 66, was forced to miss another show on Thursday after feeling unwell, following his live broadcast from the festival on Tuesday alongside co-host Ally McCoist.
Stand-in Presenter Explains Absence
Shebahn Aherne, who has previously filled in for Brazil, returned to the presenter's chair on Thursday morning, surprising listeners who tuned in at 6am. Aherne explained that the former Scotland international footballer requires a little bit more rest before his anticipated return. "Surprise! You're listening to talkSPORT Breakfast, it's Shebahn Aherne in for Alan Brazil," she began. "He needs a little bit more rest today, don't we all? But Alan will be back with you tomorrow morning, fit and firing for Gold Cup Day."
Co-hosts and Station Confirm Plans
Co-host Gabby Agbonlahor expressed support for Brazil, stating: "He's a legend of Cheltenham. And the amount of people that will be excited to see him tomorrow, to hear him, all across the world. Hopefully, he's fine for the morning." TalkSPORT also issued an official explanation on their website, confirming: "talkSPORT can confirm the big man is a wee bit unwell and we expect him back on the airwaves for Gold Cup Day. Brazil successfully delivered his iconic programme live from Cheltenham on Tuesday before a pre-agreed rest day on Wednesday."
The statement added: "And he just needs a little more time to recuperate before returning for Friday's big finale alongside Arsenal legend Ray Parlour. That is the plan, at least." Wednesday had been Brazil's designated rest day during the festival schedule, making his absence on Thursday more notable for regular listeners.
History of Absences at Cheltenham
Although Brazil remains a staple of talkSPORT's coverage from both Cheltenham and their London studios, he has not always been present in the presenter's chair. In 2004, the former Manchester United striker was temporarily dismissed by the station after going absent without leave during the horse racing festival, though he was reinstated just three weeks later.
More recently, in 2024, Brazil missed another breakfast show, with Virgin Radio host Chris Evans stepping in as a last-minute replacement. Brazil later clarified that his absence on that occasion was not alcohol-related but due to fatigue from a busy week while managing a knee problem. The 66-year-old is well-known for enjoying drinks at the festival with co-host Ray Parlour.
As the Cheltenham Festival approaches its climax with the legendary Gold Cup on Friday, all eyes will be on whether Brazil makes his scheduled return to the airwaves, bringing his distinctive commentary back to one of racing's most prestigious events.
