Finalise decision on LA2028 soon, says Azizulhasni

 The Pocket Rocketman says it is crucial to finalise his participation before the Asian Games as qualifying for the Olympics is extremely challenging.

National track cycling legend Azizulhasni Awang said he would be happy to end his career while at his peak. (Bernama pic)

SEPANG:

National track cycling legend Azizulhasni Awang says a decision on whether he will compete at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games must be finalised before next month’s Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya.

He said the matter was crucial as the technically demanding qualification process for the Los Angeles Olympics would begin after the continental meet, making it important for all parties to have clarity beforehand.

The Tokyo Olympics silver medallist said discussions involving all relevant stakeholders should be held before any decision is reached.

“It’s not about whether I want to go to the Los Angeles Olympics or not. It’s about whether Malaysia or the Malaysian team still needs me for LA.

“If the Malaysian team or Malaysia still needs my services, then I can plan accordingly,” he told reporters upon arriving at KLIA from Glasgow.

Azizulhasni said he would need to hold discussions with the youth and sports ministry, the National Sports Council and the Malaysian National Cycling Federation to fine-tune the plan.

He said qualifying for the Olympics was extremely challenging and involved competing in numerous overseas events that required a high level of commitment.

“The next Olympic qualification process is very tricky. There are many competitions we need to compete in, including Class 1 and Class 2 events, with extensive travel and multiple World Cup races. So, many things need to be discussed,” he said.

For now, the Pocket Rocketman is focused on preparations for the Asian Games, which begin on Sept 19.

However, Azizulhasni admitted that, personally, he would be happy to end his career while at his peak.

“To be honest, if I could, I’d retire today. I’d be very happy to end my career at the top. I see winning in Glasgow recently as a blessing from Allah,” he said.

He hopes his ability to continue dominating world-class competition at the age of 38 would serve as motivation and inspiration for the country’s younger athletes.

Azizulhasni recently ended a 16-year wait to become a Commonwealth Games champion after winning the gold medal in the keirin event at the Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome in Glasgow. - FMT