Today names new sports presenter as Danika Mason's next move revealed

Michael Atkinson has been named Today’s new sports presenter, moving from Nine’s weekend breakfast program following Danika Mason’s departure.

Atkinson will take over the weekday sports role after Mason signed off on Friday to go on maternity leave.

READ MORE: 'Something had to give': Danika Mason departs Today Show

Atkinson moves to weekday sport

Atkinson said the appointment would draw on a sporting background that began in regional Queensland.

“Sport is in my veins. From growing up on rugby league, swimming and cricket in country Queensland, to playing Aussie Rules and tennis as a schoolboy, playing and working in rugby union as an adult, and working on netball and the Olympics in the media, I feel connected to every variety of sport.

“With two home World Cups next year and Nine’s biggest ever year of sport, it’s going to be epic. I can’t wait to bring the latest sports news to our viewers.”

Nine’s Director of Morning Television, Steve Burling, said Atkinson’s experience across the network’s breakfast programs made him a familiar presence for viewers.

“Michael’s love of sport runs deep, and he is the perfect fit to join Today. He is already familiar to our audience having hosted Weekend Today and filled in on the Today desk, but will bring a different dynamic to the show.

“His appointment, in addition to Danika’s return to sport in 2027, is another example of the depth of talent we have at Nine.”

A farewell to the weekend desk

Atkinson joined Weekend Today permanently earlier this year alongside Alison Piotrowski and news presenter Lizzie Pearl, following a summer stint on the program.

“Hosting Weekend Today alongside Ali and Lizzie has been such a huge privilege.
The team behind the show, led by Executive Producer Michael Kersnovske, do a phenomenal job and are incredible to work with.

“Not only are Ali and Lizzie exceptional professionals, but they have also challenged me to be a better broadcaster, and we have become close friends. The past 10 or so months on Weekend Today have been some of the most enjoyable of my career to date, and I’m eternally grateful for the experience of sharing the desk with Ali and Lizzie.”

Mason steps away from breakfast

Mason plans to return to Nine’s NRL coverage around three months after welcoming her first child with fiancé Liam Knight.

Speaking to Confidential at The Everest on Saturday, she confirmed she intended to be back at The Everest on Saturday, she confirmed she intended to return for the opening round of the 2027 season in Australia.

“I don’t think I’ll go over to Vegas for obvious reasons. But I’ll be back for round one in Australia,” she said.