JOHOR BAHRU - National track cyclist Muhammad Shah Firdaus Sahrom is ready to take on the role of the leading cyclist if Datuk Mohd Azizulhasni Awang officially decides not to compete in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Muhammad Shah Firdaus, 29, said he has demonstrated his readiness by leading the team in several international competitions, such as the Commonwealth Games and Asian Games.
"I've always been prepared for this responsibility since joining the elite team. I’ve proven it by leading the team at the Commonwealth and Asian Games, where we achieved good results.
"So, I believe there’s no issue. I know, sooner or later, I'll have to take on this responsibility. I hope the next generation will also be ready because their turn will come to bear this responsibility," he told reporters at a shopping mall here today.
Muhammad Shah Firdaus said that The Pocket Rocketman (Azizulhasni) would continue to serve as his mentor while he prepares to face the high expectations of Malaysians, who are hoping for a gold medal in the Olympics.
The cyclist from Muar said that although the 2028 Olympics are four years away, training and preparations have already begun.
"The expectations of Malaysians are high. Datuk (Azizulhasni) has raised the profile of cycling to a high level, so I have to be mentally and physically ready.
"I’ve resumed training since last week, a few weeks after the Paris Olympics ended. Thankfully, my injury from that event (keirin) is healing well," he added.
Meanwhile, Muhammad Shah Firdaus hopes that the authorities will continue to scout for new talent in track cycling to represent the country at the international level.
"Johor now has an international-standard velodrome, so I hope the facility will be fully utilised to nurture more national track cycling champions," he said.
Last Sunday, it was reported that Azizulhasni hinted he may not compete in the 2028 Olympics but is ready to assist younger riders.
At the Paris 2024 Olympics, Shah Firdaus was eliminated during the men’s keirin final for an infringement despite finishing fourth. - BERNAMA