KUALA LUMPUR: The decision regarding national track cycling star Datuk Mohd Azizulhasni Awang’s continued involvement in Malaysia’s Podium Programme is anticipated to become clear within the next two weeks. Despite the expiration of a deadline set by the National Sports Council (NSC), the athlete has not yet communicated his decision to the Malaysian National Cycling Federation (MNCF).

According to BERNAMA News Agency, MNCF President Datuk Amarjit Singh stated that Mohd Azizulhasni is expected to meet with Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh to discuss his future. However, the meeting is unlikely to occur until after the cyclist returns from performing Umrah next week. The MNCF and NSC had previously agreed to retain the 2017 keirin world champion in the programme for 2025, granting him until December 31 to confirm his interest.

Despite missing the initial deadline, Mohd Azizulhasni, who won a silver medal at the Tokyo 2021 Olympics and a bronze at the Rio 2016 Games, may still join the Podium Programme at a later time. His salary would commence from the date he signs the contract. The 37-year-old cyclist has remained silent about his plans with the national team since his last competition at the Paris 2024 Olympics.

At the Paris Olympics, Mohd Azizulhasni encountered setbacks, including disqualification from the men’s keirin event’s first round for overtaking the derny prematurely, and relegation in the 1/8 finals of the sprint event. Athletes in the Podium Programme receive a monthly salary and benefits such as sports science support, medical care, and contributions to the Employees Provident Fund (EPF).