Sports reporter Michael Atkinson is the new co-host of Weekend Today.
The Nine Network made the announcement on Friday, with the sports reporter set to join Alison Piotrowski on the weekend shift.
Atkinson, Piotrowski and news presenter Lizzie Pearl joined Karl Stefanovic and Sarah Abo in the studio for an official on-air welcome on Friday morning, following the reporter’s successful summer stint on the desk.
“I’m excited and proud to be joining the Today family and becoming part of a program that’s such a trusted part of Australians’ weekends,” Atkinson said.
“I grew up in regional Queensland where weekends are about family, sport and catching up on what matters, so this role feels especially meaningful.”
Atkinson, who is also the current sports reporter for Stan, said he is keen to take on the new role, while still being able to do what he loves.
“I’ve always had a passion for sport and the impact it has on our lives, so I’m fortunate to be continuing to host Stan Sport’s rugby coverage and my love for live sport, while taking on my new role co-hosting Weekend Today,” he said.
“I’m very lucky to be working alongside such professionals and outstanding people in Ali, Lizzie and Dan, as well as the exceptional team behind the cameras.”
Atkinson will replace longtime Weekend Today host Clint Stanaway, who announced that he was leaving the network after 25 years in September.
The sports presenter grew up in Queensland and began his media career at the age of 29. He moved to Sydney in 2023, following a successful career as a sports journalist and presenter for 9News Gold Coast and Brisbane.
His co-host, Piotrowski has shared her excitement to work with Atkinson.
“Michael jumped into the hot seat over summer and took to the show like a duck to water,” she said.
“He’s sports mad, incredibly knowledgeable, and has a wonderful sense of humour. We’re looking forward to making Weekend Today even better for our viewers in 2026.”
Image: Nine
