Am I still needed for 2028 Olympics, Azizulhasni asks
The national track cycling star says he needs clarity so that he can make detailed plans for training, competitions and commitments involving his family and sponsors.
National track cycling star Azizulhasni Awang has questioned whether Malaysia still requires his services for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. In a detailed statement on Instagram, the 14th-ranked world cyclist explained the qualification process and shared his stance on his career's future.
Azizulhasni emphasized that the current focus is not on whether he desires to compete in LA28, but rather on whether Malaysia needs his participation. He highlighted that achieving this determination is essential for him to plan his training, competitions, family commitments, and sponsor responsibilities effectively.
The team sprint qualification will be restricted to the world's top eight teams, while individual events like keirin and sprint will only permit the world's top 30 riders. Azizulhasni, currently ranked 14th globally, expressed his readiness to enhance his position through consistent performances over the next two seasons. He is willing to secure private support and compete as a fully professional athlete if required, potentially foregoing grants from the youth and sports ministry and national sports council to ensure other riders receive funding.
His priority is establishing a support system that can maintain his preparation and recovery at the highest level. Azizulhasni suggested a hybrid training arrangement, alternating between Melbourne and Malaysia based on his training, competition, and sponsorship obligations. He also advocated for a written agreement regarding athletes' rights to qualification points, aiming to prevent instances of athletes being used solely to accumulate points before their prospects later change.
Written by urgent.news from Free Malaysia Today's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
