Johor Darul Ta’zim FC (JDT) Cycling Team is scheduled to be launched this month in a bid to expand the JDT brand into competitive cycling.
State youth, sports, entrepreneur development and cooperatives committee chairman Mohd Hairi Mad Shah said preparations for the new team were being finalised.
He said this followed discussions with national track cycling ace and Johor sports icon Muhammad Shah Firdaus Sahrom, who will be among key figures overseeing development and performance of the team.
“It will be another step towards expanding the JDT brand into other sporting disciplines while setting a new benchmark for cycling in Johor,” he said.
The Larkin assemblyman said the initiative would also help identify, guide and develop young talents from Johor.
“They can then be nurtured and given opportunities to make their mark at the national and international levels,” he added.
Mohd Hairi said Mentri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi had committed to the effort via an allocation under the state’s 2026 budget.
He said the funding further strengthened development of cycling while providing a structured platform for athletes to progress.
“The initiative is in line with Johor Sports Nation 2030, which aims to establish a comprehensive sports ecosystem ranging from grassroots development to the elite level.
“The state’s XTIF Johor programme will also play a role in identifying and developing new cycling talent on a continuous basis.
“This means talent development will no longer be seasonal or limited to specific events.”
Mohd Hairi said the ultimate aim was for JDT Cycling Team to be more than just a competitive outfit – it was to be a platform for producing champions.
The team would also serve as a vehicle to promote Johor and the country internationally, he added.
