Kuala lumpur: The decision on national track cycling star Datuk Mohd Azizulhasni Awang's bid to compete at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games (LA28) is heading in a positive direction, said Youth and Sports Minister Dr Mohamed Taufiq Johari. He stated that intensive discussions between the Ministry of Youth and Sports (KBS), National Sports Council (NSC), and Azizulhasni on the 38-year-old cyclist's plans and journey towards LA28 are being held regularly. A final and official decision regarding Azizulhasni's journey to LA28 would be announced after the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games, including details on the support to be provided to the cyclist.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, NSC director-general Jefri Ngadirin said the ministry and NSC had committed to fully supporting whatever decision Mohd Azizulhasni, nicknamed The Pocket Rocketman, makes regarding whether to continue representing the country at LA28. He mentioned that Mohd Azizulhasni's name has also been included in the Olympic Pathway presented by the Malaysian National Cycling Federation (MNCF) for elite athletes, which encompasses qualifying tournaments, starting with the World Championships through 2028.
Jefri elaborated that the NSC and KBS fully support the Olympic Pathway that was presented by the coaches, which includes training camps, championships participation, and necessary assistance for collecting qualifying points for the Olympic Games. The delay in making an official announcement was at the request of Azizulhasni, who wishes to complete his mission at the Asiad first.
In terms of support, Jefri assured that they would provide 100 percent backing for Azizulhasni. He noted that the NSC's support includes training programs, exposure to competitions, support services from the National Sports Institute (NSI), and sufficient funding to continue his LA28 mission. The NSC is also willing to provide Azizulhasni with the flexibility to determine his training base and preparation structure based on his preferred approach and comfort level.
On Tuesday, Mohd Azizulhasni mentioned he was awaiting an official decision from KBS and NSC on whether his services will be required as he continues his quest to qualify for LA28. He emphasized the importance of this decision in determining his plans post-Asian Games in Nagoya and Aichi, Japan, as well as his preparation for the World Championships in Shanghai, China, a key Olympic qualifying event.