NSC clears track for Azizulhasni to chase LA28 dream

KUALA LUMPUR: National Sports Council (NSC) director-general Jefri Ngadirin confirmed that Azizulhasni Awang, the track cycling star, will have the council's full backing if he chooses to pursue the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The NSC held a meeting with the two-time Olympic medallist to discuss his plans, and an Olympic pathway was agreed upon with the Malaysian National Cycling Federation (MNCF) in June.

Jefri emphasized that Azizulhasni would be among the athletes receiving special focus in preparation for the next Olympics. The 38-year-old has not yet officially confirmed his decision, but Jefri mentioned that the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games, scheduled from September 19 to October 4, will be Azizulhasni's immediate priority. NSC and MNCF are prepared to fully support Azizulhasni's programme if he decides to pursue another Olympic campaign.

The support extends beyond the Road to Gold (RTG) programme, as NSC and the National Youth and Sports Ministry continue to provide assistance for athletes aiming for Olympic qualification through various government-backed initiatives. Approximately 700 full-time athletes currently under NSC programs are expected to benefit from the partnership with Ajinomoto, with the number anticipated to increase to around 1,300 ahead of the upcoming Kuala Lumpur SEA Games.