The raging favourite has won the race, with Channel Nine this morning announcing Georgie Gardner as Lisa Wilkinson’s replacement alongside Karl Stefanovic on the Today show.

Gardner announced the decision herself on the breakfast show this morning and it’s understood she’ll take-up official hosting duties when the show returns in 2018.

Initial reports said Gardner, 47, was reluctant to take-up the role due to the early morning starts, however, was cajoled into it by Nine CEO, Hugh Marks, and a reported $500,000 salary.

It also comes amid news that Channel Ten are planning a breakfast program of their own with the recently defected Wilkinson as host.

Speaking to Fairfax Media today, Gardner described the Today gig as the best job in TV.

“It’s like none other; it’s a platform that gives you that opportunity to connect with people in every part of this country, in the cities and in every corner,” Gardner said.

“It’s a wonderful opportunity to discuss issues of national interest, to shine a light on issues people are concerned about, to inform and entertain, and hopefully rekindle the lovely relationship I had over the seven years prior.

“Karl and I obviously go back a long way. I enjoy his company enormously. He is predictably unpredictable … but I relish a challenge. Jokes aside, there is so much I can learn from him.”