Matt Shirvington ‘confirmed’ as David Koch’s successor on Sunrise

Olympian-turned-broadcaster Matt Shirvington is expected to replace David ‘Kochie’ Koch as host of Sunrise when the veteran broadcaster retires at the end of 2024.

The sports presenter, 44, is Channel Seven’s top choice to succeed Koch, 66, who is planning his retirement after signing a contract extension last month.

Shirvington filled in as co-anchor six weeks ago when Koch was on leave, and network executives were said to be impressed by his natural presenting abilities. 

Olympian-turned-broadcaster Matt Shirvington (pictured) is expected to replace David ‘Kochie’ Koch as host of Sunrise when the veteran broadcaster retires at the end of 2024 

Shirvington already co-hosts Sunrise on Fridays, with The Australian’s Media Diary reporting senior management is looking to make the role permanent.

Koch’s departure will be a gradual one as he reduces the number of his days on air over the next two years until his contract expires.

This is so viewers don’t get ‘spooked’ by his immediate departure.

The sports presenter, 44, is Channel Seven’s top choice to succeed Koch (pictured), who is planning his retirement after signing a contract extension last month 

Shirvington (right, with Natalie Barr) filled in as co-anchor six weeks ago when Koch was on leave, and network executives were said to be impressed by his natural presenting abilities

It follows reports Koch is planning his retirement but has committed to staying at the Seven breakfast show for at least another two years.

He signed a contact extension in October locking him in until the end of 2024, but has negotiated for ‘greater flexibility’ in his schedule.

He inked the deal at a meeting with Seven Network CEO James Warburton, during which he expressed his interest in retiring. 

The champion athlete (pictured in August 2003) already fills in for Koch on Fridays

Warburton was able to convince Koch to put off his retirement plans for another two years, but agreed to draw up a contract allowing the long-serving anchor ‘to take more breaks from the show according to his requirements’, reported The Australian. 

This is in addition to Koch’s already relaxed work schedule that sees him host Sunrise four days a week, taking Fridays off.

Having been granted more ‘flexibility’ with his schedule, Koch hopes to spend more time with his wife Libby and focus on his businesses Ausbiz TV and Pinstripe Media.

It follows reports Koch (right, with Barr) is planning his retirement but has committed to staying at the Seven breakfast show for at least another two years 

Having been granted more ‘flexibility’ with his schedule, Koch hopes to spend more time with his wife Libby (right) and focus on his businesses Ausbiz TV and Pinstripe Media