Laura Woods ‘taken ill’ after collapsing while presenting ahead of Lionesses clash

Laura Woods appeared to collapse while presenting ITV’s pre-match coverage of England’s clash with Ghana on Tuesday night.

The 38-year-old was caught by pundits Ian Wright and Anita Asante before ITV cut straight to commercials.

When the coverage returned, Katie Shanahan confirmed that she had taken the reins as lead presenter after Woods had been “taken ill”.

“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,” Shanahan said.

The abruptness of the incident has led to an outpouring of concern on social media, with viewers anxiously waiting for an update on her wellbeing.

One X user wrote: “Don’t know what happened there with Laura Woods at the coverage of the Lionesses game on ITV4, but hoping she’s ok.”

Another wrote: “Looking forward to the game but hope Laura Woods is okay. Quite a shock to see her collapse like that.”

Fans have also been quick to praise those around Woods for how they dealt with the troubling situation.

“Full respect to the presenter who had to step in with zero notice after Laura Woods fainted,” one viewer posted, hailing Shanahan who is now in charge of steering the build-up. “She’s making it look easy.”

Arsenal legend Wright, a beloved figure in women’s football, has also earned plaudits for catching Woods and potentially preventing her from further harm.

“Hope Laura Woods is OK? Well played Wrighty,” another fan said.

Woods is one of the most recognisable faces in sports broadcasting and is a regular on ITV’s coverage of the Lionesses, taking on lead presenter roles for both the 2023 Women’s World Cup and Euro 2025.