PETALING JAYA: Dr Mohammed Taufiq Johari says a communication breakdown led to the recent uncertainty over national track cycling ace Datuk Azizulhasni Awang’s participation in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
The Youth and Sports Minister said the decision for Azizulhasni to continue his campaign towards LA 2028 was made on Aug 13, but there was a delay in issuing the formal offer letter, which was only produced on Sunday (Aug 30).
“On Aug 13, I instructed the National Sports Council (NSC) and its board to evaluate the matter, and we agreed that Azizul should continue his mission to represent the country at LA 2028,” he told a press conference on Tuesday.
“I admit this and I take responsibility. There may have been some misunderstanding in terms of communication, which we have resolved internally with the NSC and the National Sports Institute (NSI).
“So, I gave the instruction on Aug 13 and the offer letter was issued on Aug 30. There may have been a timing gap which caused this issue to arise.”
Dr Taufiq said he had great respect for Azizulhasni and viewed the cyclist’s concerns positively.
“We received his response yesterday stating his acceptance, and he also thanked the ministry and the NSC,” he said.
Azizulhasni, 38, has long indicated his intention to retire from competitive cycling but said he was prepared to continue until the 2028 Olympics if the NSC and the ministry required his services.
The former Olympic silver and bronze medallist had sought a firm decision from the authorities so that he could plan his qualification campaign for Los Angeles.
He had earlier expressed frustration over the delay in receiving a clear decision on whether he would continue to receive support for his Olympic campaign.
