Double Olympic medalist Azizulhasni Awang has returned to the track for one more year to compete as a professional track cyclist under Team Azizul.
The 37-year-old announced his decision with sights on the 2026 Asian Games, slated to run in Japan from September 19 to October 4.
The keirin world champion announced the decision in a press conference, attended by Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh in Bukit Jalil on Saturday.
He will be handed RM 200,000 grant from National Sports Council for his training and competition needs.
Azizul, who is set to return for national training from next month, said that it was a difficult call after what happened in Paris 2024 last year.
“I’m still feeling the effects of what had happened to me until today,” said Azizul.
Azizul was disqualified in the first round of the heats for moving ahead of the derny at the Paris 2024, destroying hopes of winning a third straight Olympic medal.
“That’s why I needed time to make this decision. I had to consult with the association, my sponsors and most importantly my family.
“I would need time to get back my pace but you know me, when I say I’ll give my best, I really mean it,” said Azizul.
Leave a Reply