BBC Radio 5 Live presenter Steve Crossman suffered an epileptic seizure live on air a fortnight ago while broadcasting coverage of the World Cup from Mexico City, Mexico.
Crossman, who has lived with the neurological condition since his diagnosis in 2013, managed to hand over the broadcast to a news bulletin moments before losing consciousness.
Following his return to the United Kingdom, Crossman appeared on BBC Breakfast on July 1, 2026, to share updates on his health, his medical history, and his upcoming advocacy efforts.
Crossman detailed the immediate aftermath of the medical emergency and praised his production team for their rapid adherence to first-aid procedures.
He also announced that he will be surrendering his driving license to the DVLA upon returning to British soil, in accordance with regulatory requirements for individuals who experience seizures.
The presenter utilized his social media presence to disclose the incident and express gratitude toward his broadcasting colleagues who assisted him during the live medical emergency.
"So, I had a seizure whilst on air in Mexico not long after arriving at the World Cup," wrote Steve Crossman.
The broadcaster emphasized that the support of his immediate production team was crucial in managing the situation safely.
"I stuck it out, inspired by my sister who never let her epilepsy stop her," stated Crossman.
He noted that his colleagues provided immediate stability during the unexpected episode.
"It's been tough BUT I've been surrounded by amazing @5liveSport friends. (Yes this is another sponsorship plea)," noted Crossman.
While reflecting on his public profile and the reality of living with the neurological condition, Crossman previously detailed the wider implications of epilepsy during a 2024 broadcast segment.
"I often say to people, 'epilepsy is not just seizures'. Seizures are the worst of epilepsy," explained Crossman.
He highlighted the profound emotional and psychological challenges that accompany the physical symptoms of the condition.
"They're awful, they're embarrassing and they're physically very dangerous, but the mental health impacts on people who have epilepsy, and the families of people who have epilepsy, is awful," said Crossman.
During his appearance on BBC Breakfast on July 1, 2026, Crossman discussed the cognitive and observational dynamics of witnessing a seizure versus experiencing one directly.
"I'm alright, yh. I'm ok.
It's a strange thing about epilepsy," stated Crossman.
He drew comparisons between his personal health battles and his past experiences watching his late sister contend with the same disorder.
"Obviously, I've seen both sides of it.
I've been the person having the seizure, and I've been the person witnessing the seizure with my sister.
Often it's worse to be the person watching it happen," remarked Crossman.
He explained how the loss of consciousness shifts the psychological burden entirely onto bystanders and coworkers.
"The next thing I know, I was waking up, so it's a strange thing.
The people who witness it are normally the people who have the most to deal with," continued Crossman.
Crossman further elaborated on the specific nature of his medical condition, noting that his episodes are classified as tonic-clonic seizures which transpire with high randomness and minimal warning indicators.
"I do have specific triggers.
The neurologist that I saw in Mexico City, where it happened, said that this one was probably down to jet lag.
I've had three seizures in 10 years.
One was in Mexico City, one was in Rio, and one was on a treadmill in Aldringham, so that just shows the randomness of it," explained Crossman.
He recalled a previous medical emergency in Brazil where improper physical restraint by bystanders resulted in prolonged recovery difficulties.
"That cost me a lot physically and psychologically over the years," stated Crossman.
In contrast, Crossman credited his current production crew, including producer George, editor Mark, an unnamed engineer, and football commentator Ian Dennis, for managing the Mexico City episode flawlessly.
"Luckily for me, when it happened in Mexico City, I don't want to do one of those Oscar speeches where you thank everyone and then forget somebody.
But our producer, George, who was there, and our editor, Mark, knew exactly what to do," said Crossman.
He noted that Dennis was able to coordinate first-aid measures remotely from a separate broadcasting base in the United States.
"Our engineer was great, and Ian Dennis, who is a very well-known 5 Live football commentator, knows what to do as well," added Crossman.
Dennis utilized his prior knowledge of Crossman's medical history to guide the technical team through the emergency protocols.
"He happened to be doing the commentary from somewhere else in America at the time, and he was able to say to the editor of the program back at base, 'This is something you can do, we've spoken about it and that thing,'" stated Crossman.
In addition to detailing his health status, Crossman confirmed his registration for the 2027 London Marathon to secure funding for the Epilepsy Society in memory of his sister, Jill, who died from Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP).
"You'll have to get used to these posts!
We lost my amazing sister Jill to her epilepsy and I'm running the 2027 London Marathon for @epilepsysociety," announced Crossman via his social media platform.
He urged the public to consider the severity of the neurological illness and contribute to scientific research.
"I'm a sufferer myself of this dreadful disease, if you can spare a couple of quid it'd mean the world," requested Crossman.
On his official fundraising page, Crossman highlighted his sister's life adventures as his core inspiration for enduring the rigorous marathon training ahead.
"I have epilepsy and my sister Jill died from Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP) in 2021.
She was one of the most resilient people I've ever known and if she could find the bravery to live amongst polar bears in Alaska during her amazing life then I think I should be able to plod my way round London!"
wrote Crossman on his charity portfolio.
The presenter concluded his statement by emphasizing that public financial support remains vital for the continuation of specialized medical advocacy.
"Any donation you can give will help the Epilepsy Society to continue their incredible work and will spur me on throughout my training!"
stated Crossman.
Further details from his online updates confirmed his administrative compliance regarding his transport privileges upon arrival in the United Kingdom.
"And if the DVLA are reading this, then yes, my driving license is in the post, I am surrendering it!
Or at least it will be when I touch back down in the UK on Friday!" stated Crossman.
In a separate public appeal, the charity organization highlighted its core medical advice, known as Calm, Cushion, Call, to educate the public on how to handle similar situations.
The Epilepsy Society confirmed that all its allocated marathon places have been distributed, but continues to encourage independent ballot winners to run in support of their ongoing neurological research programs.
