KUALA LUMPUR — The wait is almost over.
Datuk Mohd Azizulhasni Awang’s next move — whether it’s retirement, a new role, or one final push on the track — will be officially revealed this Saturday, in a joint press conference with Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh.
Malaysian National Cycling Federation (MNCF) president Datuk Amarjit Singh Gill confirmed the long-anticipated announcement is finally set, with all parties, including Azizulhasni himself, expected to lay out full details.
“I think Datuk Azizulhasni has had discussions with the minister, and I’ve also spoken to him,” Amarjit told reporters today, Bernama reported.
“We were supposed to have the press conference during the fasting month, but due to timing and all that, I think it’s going to be on Saturday.”
The press conference is scheduled for 4.30pm.
Azizulhasni — affectionately known as The Pocket Rocketman — is one of Malaysia’s most decorated athletes, with Olympic silver and bronze medals to his name, as well as a world keirin title.
At 36, speculation has been mounting over whether he will retire from competitive cycling following a disappointing outing at the Paris 2024 Games.
In Paris, the Terengganu-born rider was disqualified from the opening round of the keirin event for overtaking the derny too early, and later exited the sprint in the repechage stages.
“I think he has contributed a lot to the country,” Amarjit said. “But I don’t want to say anything more… the more I speak, the more I may blurt out.”
The MNCF president made the remarks after an event in Kuala Lumpur, where the Asian Cycling Confederation (ACC) — which Amarjit also leads — announced a four-year, US$70,000 (RM309,000) sponsorship deal with local sports apparel brand iSports.
The agreement is part of ACC’s wider push to grow cycling across the region, with Malaysia emerging as a key hub for hosting events and building athlete development.
“Malaysia is not only playing host to many international sporting events but is also emerging as a strategic hub for cycling development in the region,” Amarjit said.
Goh Seng Too, director of Genuine Marketing Enterprise which owns iSports, said the company was proud to contribute to the sport’s growth.
He added that they are committed to delivering high-quality products for athletes and teams competing in ACC events. — April 17, 2025