Tim Saunders suspended 2 games after hot mic catches his comment during Flyers broadcast, here’s what he made on air

Tim Saunders, the Philadelphia Flyers play-by-play radio broadcaster, was suspended for two games on December 19, 2025, after an inappropriate comment was caught on a hot mic during the team’s game against the Buffalo Sabres. The incident happened during what Saunders believed was a commercial break, but the radio broadcast remained live to thousands of listeners.

What Happened During the Broadcast?

During the third period of the Flyers-Sabres game on December 18, Saunders transitioned to what he believed would be a commercial break. The television broadcast went to the break as scheduled, but the radio feed remained live. Saunders made a crude and sexually inappropriate reference, assuming no one was listening.

Todd Fedoruk, the color analyst and broadcast partner, immediately realized the mistake. He alerted Saunders by saying “I think we’re still on the air, Tim.” Saunders laughed in response, saying “No we’re not, are we?” The comment had already been broadcast to all radio listeners in the Philadelphia area.

Immediate Response From the Flyers Organization

The Philadelphia Flyers and 97.5 The Fanatic, the team’s radio broadcast partner, moved swiftly to address the incident. On Friday morning, December 19, they announced the suspension through an official statement posted to X (formerly Twitter).

The organization emphasized that standards were violated. “These remarks do not reflect the standards of conduct or values we expect from anyone associated with our organization,” the statement read. The team also offered an apology to those affected: “We sincerely apologize to our listeners, fans and all those affected by these comments.”

Saunders Apologizes for His Comments

On December 19, Saunders issued his own apology addressing the hot mic incident directly. He acknowledged the severity of his “error in judgment” and took full responsibility for broadcasting inappropriate content.

“I recognize how offensive my remarks were, and the harm it has caused. I take full responsibility and sincerely apologize to the Flyers, 97.5 The Fanatic and all those affected by my remarks.”

— Tim Saunders, Philadelphia Flyers Radio Broadcaster

Saunders further committed to improving his conduct going forward. “To all Flyers fans and listeners of our broadcast, I promise that I will hold myself to a higher standard moving forward to ensure our broadcast is a safe and respectful place everyone can enjoy.”

What Are the Implications for Flyers Broadcasting?

This incident serves as a stark reminder about the dangers of hot mics in professional sports broadcasting. Saunders has been the Philadelphia Flyers play-by-play voice since 1997, making this one of the most significant moments in his lengthy career. The two-game suspension means he will miss broadcasts during that time period.

The Flyers and 97.5 The Fanatic stated they are continuing to address the matter with all parties involved. The incident highlights the importance of broadcast protocols and constant vigilance about maintaining professionalism in live radio settings where millions of listeners can hear every word spoken in the booth.

Sources

• NBC News – Philadelphia Flyers suspend radio broadcaster for inappropriate hot mic comment
• USA TODAY – Flyers issue two-game suspension over inappropriate hot mic comment
• Fox News – NHL announcer suspended after hot mic catches inappropriate comment

Michael Brown

Michael Brown is a seasoned sports journalist bringing years of experience covering professional athletics and sporting culture. With a keen eye for breaking stories and player dynamics, this veteran journalist delivers in-depth analysis and exclusive insights from the world’s biggest sporting events. His passion for the game shines through in every story, keeping fans connected to the action both on and off the field.