PETALING JAYA: National track cyclist Azizulhasni Awang admitted that his action of coming out to defend technical director John Beasley may invite various reactions including efforts by certain parties to attack him in the future.
However, the two-time Olympic medallist insisted that he was prepared to face all possibilities if he failed to achieve the expected results at the upcoming Commonwealth Games and Asian Games.
Azizul said he expected the risks as soon as he came out to defend Beasley who has contributed a lot to the development and success of national track cycling in the last two decades.
"By defending JB (Beasley), I know the risks that are present for me. It is possible that these people will try to bring me down too,'' he said.
"And when the results at the Commonwealth Games and Asian Games are not as they expected, you can all look at the news and sentences hitting me. That is normal.''
Despite realising that he may be a target after this, the Tokyo 2020 Olympics silver medalist insisted that he was not afraid because he was confident that every decision taken were under the powers of Allah.
"I am not afraid because I have Allah SWT and I believe that anything in this world, if Allah says ‘Kun Faya Kun’ then it’s be, and it is.
"That's why I prefer to speak about what I believe is true and defend individuals who I feel have contributed a lot to the country's cycling scene," he said.
Azizul came out to defend Beasley following various views and criticisms hurled at the Australian, who played a major role in producing many world-class cyclists including himself.
He stressed that his main focus at the moment is to ensure that preparations for the Commonwealth Games and Asian Games go smoothly while hoping that all parties can provide support to the athletes and national team in their efforts to pursue success on the international stage.
Malaysia National Cycling Federation (MNCF) president Datuk Amarjit Singh Gill said last week that two individuals from state affiliates will be issued show-cause letters.
This disciplinary action was taken as the individuals criticised Beasley publicly without utilising official administrative channels, thereby tarnishing the national body's reputation.
