Ian Wright speaks on Laura Woods’ collapse during live coverage
Ian Wright has addressed the incident in which Laura Woods collapsed live on air during ITV’s coverage of England Women’s match against Ghana at St Mary’s Stadium. Wright described the moment as “worrying at the time,” but expressed relief that Woods has since confirmed her recovery, reports BritPanorama.
Woods fell ill, slumping forward before being caught by Wright and fellow pundit Anita Asante. The broadcast quickly cut to an advertising break, leaving viewers concerned. The 38-year-old later took to Instagram to reassure her audience that paramedics believed she had been affected by a virus. “Gosh that was a bit weird. Sorry to worry everyone, I’m OK, the wonderful paramedics at Saints have said it’s probably a virus, just need a bit of rest and rehydration,” she wrote.
In a further update, Woods expressed her embarrassment about the incident occurring on live television. “I’m really embarrassed that happened on TV, but a big thank you to my colleagues at ITV who have really looked after me tonight. And to Wrighty and Neets for catching me, and sorry again x,” she stated. Wright confirmed on The Overlap that he received a message from Woods the following morning, indicating her condition had improved. He noted, “It was worrying at the time but she’s fine. People have been really nice about it.”
As the broadcast resumed, Woods was replaced by presenter Katie Shanahan, who reassured the audience about Woods’ condition. “As you have probably noticed we don’t have the wonderful Laura Woods because she’s just been taken ill but she’s in very good hands so I’m stepping in at late notice. We want to reassure you she is doing okay. We all send her our love.” Keane also provided some levity to the situation, joking about the incident and expressing relief that she was recovering well.
Woods, a prominent figure in sports broadcasting, has been an integral part of major events, including the Women’s World Cup and the Lionesses’ successful Euro 2025 campaign. Having returned to television earlier in the year after giving birth to her son Leo, she has maintained a demanding schedule. Her partner, Adam Collard, was the first to inform the public about her collapse, noting, “Laura is all ok and with the right people.”
In reflecting on this incident, one can appreciate the unyielding pressure faced by sports broadcasters, where the unexpected can unfold in the blink of an eye, a stark reminder of the delicate balance between public performance and personal well-being.
