KUALA LUMPUR – The Malaysia National Cycling Federation (MNCF) has set a target of two medals for the national track cycling squad at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, which will be held from July 23 to Aug 2.
Speaking to Scoop, MNCF president Datuk Amarjit Singh Gill said the federation’s medal hopes rest on Datuk Azizulhasni Awang and Muhammad Shah Firdaus Sahrom in the men’s keirin, as well as Nurul Izzah Izzati Mohd Asri in the women’s 1km time trial at the Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome.
Rather than specifying the colour of the medals, Amarjit said the federation had intentionally opted for a broader target to avoid placing unnecessary pressure on the riders ahead of the Games.
“I do not think it would be fair for me to make a very specific prediction and then place that burden on the athletes,” he said when contacted.
“Before the Paris 2024 Olympics, I said we were capable of winning a gold medal. Looking back, I feel that created expectations that added pressure on the team.
“The athletes already carry the responsibility of representing the country, so there is no need for us to increase that burden further.
“That is why I am only saying that we are targeting two medals. I am not going to mention whether they are gold, silver or bronze. What matters most is that the riders can focus on their performance, execute their race plans and compete with confidence without feeling weighed down by external expectations.”
Despite the cautious approach, Amarjit remains confident Malaysia’s cyclists can produce strong performances and further enhance the country’s reputation on the international stage.
Based on regular updates from national technical director John Beasley, he said preparations have progressed smoothly and the squad is on track for Glasgow.
“Beasley has updated us regularly on the programme and preparations have been going well. The riders have been training consistently, the support staff are satisfied with the progress, and we believe the team will arrive in Glasgow ready to compete at a high level.
“Track cycling is highly competitive and many countries will field strong squads, but we have experienced riders and talented younger athletes who have shown they can challenge at this level. If they perform to their potential, I believe our chances of returning with medals are very good.”
Malaysia will send a 59-member contingent, including para athletes, to compete in eight of the 10 sports on the Glasgow 2026 programme, including swimming, track cycling, athletics, weightlifting and lawn bowls. Six para sports will also feature as part of the integrated Games programme.
At the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, Malaysia won seven gold, eight silver and eight bronze medals.
Track cyclist Muhammad Shah Firdaus was Malaysia’s only cycling medallist in Birmingham, claiming bronze in the men’s keirin. – July 18, 2026