Nilai: National track cyclist Muhammad Shah Firdaus Sahrom has questioned the move by certain parties seeking to replace the national cycling team's technical director, John Beasley. In expressing his disappointment, Shah Firdaus said Beasley is not just an ordinary coach but has become a father figure to the country's cyclists.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Shah Firdaus expressed his concerns during a training session at the National Velodrome, emphasizing the importance of Beasley to the team. He challenged those seeking a replacement to consider who could effectively take on Beasley's responsibilities. Shah Firdaus raised the question, "Who do they want to bring in?" referring to the impending expiration of Beasley's contract with the national track cycling squad next January.

Previously, Beasley's potential early departure became a hot topic following media reports about dissatisfaction over several internal issues. Shah Firdaus further questioned whether those seeking to replace Beasley were prepared to invest significantly if they planned to hire a coach of a higher calibre.

He highlighted the financial implications, questioning the willingness to pay for a coach better than Beasley. Shah Firdaus stressed Beasley's importance, particularly for younger riders moving to the elite level, stating that his absence could be a struggle for them.

Shah Firdaus also mentioned that Beasley's name was not included in the squad for the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland, due to technical reasons. He described the absence of the Australian coach as a major challenge for the riders, especially concerning race strategy and tactics.

Meanwhile, national track cycling head coach Harnizam Basri acknowledged the impact of Beasley's potential departure. Harnizam, who has worked with Beasley for 16 years, expressed emotional sentiments, describing Beasley as a father figure and highlighting his significant contributions to Malaysian track cycling.

Harnizam noted that Beasley's efforts have elevated Malaysian track cycling to its current level, with facilities like the National Velodrome partly due to his contributions. He emphasized the success achieved alongside Datuk Mohd Azizulhasni Awang, which has benefited current cyclists.

Earlier, Malaysian chef de mission to the 2026 Glasgow Commonwealth Games, Datuk Awalan Abdul Aziz, visited the national track cycling squad as they prepared for the event.