KUALA LUMPUR – National track cycling icon Datuk Azizulhasni Awang has admitted he is uncertain about extending his career through to the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games, saying any decision will depend on a careful assessment of age, family commitments, and financial backing.
The Pocket Rocketman stressed that despite continued encouragement from fans to keep competing, he is not currently planning his career with LA 2028 in mind.
While he has recently regained encouraging form, including a strong showing at the UCI Track Cycling World Cup in Perth, Azizulhasni said those results cannot be taken as a guarantee of long-term continuation in the sport at elite level.
“There are many asking me to continue, but at this stage I do not see myself going to Los Angeles as I will be 38 years old by then,” he told reporters at the National Velodrome in Nilai today.
He explained that competing at an older age brings a very different set of challenges, particularly in terms of recovery and physical endurance, compared to his younger years.
“As you get older, recovery is not the same. On top of that, I have four children and I am based overseas without a full support system, so many factors need to be considered,” he added.
Azizulhasni also highlighted financial sustainability as a key concern, noting that he is currently reliant on sponsorship to continue training and competing at the highest level.
“Without sponsorship support, it is difficult to fully focus on training and performance,” he said.
For now, his immediate focus remains on upcoming major assignments, including the Commonwealth Games and Asian Games this year, before making any firm decision on his future.
“I do not want to make a final decision yet. My focus is on the Commonwealth Games and Asian Games first. Let me try to win an Asian Games gold first,” he said.
Looking ahead to the UCI Track World Cup in Nilai from April 24 to 26, Azizulhasni said he is targeting a podium finish, though he acknowledged the challenge of competing against the world’s top riders. – April 10, 2026