NILAI: The Sultan of Perak, Sultan Nazrin Shah, graced the opening of the Track Cycling World Cup at the National Velodrome in Nilai here on Friday (April 24).
His Royal Highness arrived at approximately 5:30 pm and was received by Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad, Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports Mordi Bimol, and the President of the Malaysian National Cycling Federation (MNCF), Datuk Amarjit Singh Gill.
This edition of the championships has recorded an impressive turnout with participation from over 40 countries, reflecting the international cycling community's confidence in Malaysia’s capability as a host.
Amarjit said organising this edition of the World Cup was deeply significant for Malaysia, as the world-class event returns to the country after a 25-year hiatus.
"This weekend, Malaysia becomes the global stage of track cycling where we welcome the world's finest riders, Olympians, world champions, and rising stars who will compete at the highest level of speed, precision, and endurance.
"And this event is not just about the competition, but it is about the unity, excellence, and the spirit of international friendship through sports," he said in his speech.
Meanwhile, Mordi stated that hosting the championships reflects the government's ongoing commitment to strengthening the development of cycling and high-performance sports in the country.
Among the prominent cyclists in attendance are five-time Olympic champion Harrie Lavreysen from the Netherlands, Nicholas Paul (Trinidad & Tobago), Sebastien Vigier (France), Luca Spiegel (Germany), and Danial Staniszewski (Poland).
In addition to the international field, local favourites and national stars Azizulhasni Awang and Mohd Shah Firdaus Sahrom are also set to take centre stage. - Bernama
