Beasley vows to help Azizulhasni chase elusive Olympic gold at LA 2028, even from Japan

KUALA LUMPUR – Outgoing Malaysia cycling technical director John Beasley has vowed to continue helping Datuk Azizulhasni Awang chase Olympic gold at Los Angeles 2028 despite moving to Japan, declaring that he would be proud to see the Malaysian star reach the top of the podium regardless of whom he works for next.

Speaking to Scoop, Beasley said his departure from Malaysia would not change his commitment to Azizulhasni’s Olympic ambitions, making it clear that the cyclist could still turn to him for assistance as he prepares for what could be his final Olympic campaign.

“I’d be the proudest person in the world to see Azizul get up on that top spot of the podium in LA, no matter who I work for next. Having worked with him and seen the dedication, sacrifices and commitment he puts into his cycling, I know how much that Olympic gold medal would mean to him.

“It would be an incredible moment, not just for Azizul but for the whole of Malaysia. I would be extremely happy to see him achieve that dream, regardless of where I am or which country I am working with at the time,” Beasley said.

The Australian, who is preparing to begin a new chapter in Japan, said he remained committed to helping Azizulhasni pursue the elusive Olympic gold medal that has so far escaped him despite a career filled with international success.

John Beasley says his departure from Malaysia would not change his commitment to Azizulhasni’s Olympic ambitions. - Scoop file pic, October 16, 2026

Asked whether he would continue supporting the Malaysian cyclist from Japan, Beasley was unequivocal.

“A hundred per cent. He only has to reach out to me and I will be there for him. Just because I am moving to Japan does not mean I will stop supporting Azizul or that I will no longer be willing to share my knowledge and experience with him.

“If there is anything I can do to help him prepare for Los Angeles, I will certainly do my best to assist him. I want to see him go into the games knowing that he has done everything possible to give himself the best chance of winning that gold medal.

“I will always want the best for him, and I would be delighted to see him achieve what he has been working towards for so many years,” he said.

Beasley’s assurance comes as Azizulhasni sets his sights on the Los Angeles Games, with the Malaysian cycling icon continuing to carry the country’s hopes of securing its first Olympic gold medal.

Azizulhasni won bronze in the keirin at the Rio 2016 Olympics before claiming silver at Tokyo 2020, establishing himself as one of Malaysia’s most successful Olympians.

His achievements have made him a defining figure in Malaysian cycling, but Beasley’s continued willingness to help also highlights the importance of maintaining continuity in the preparation of an athlete pursuing a historic breakthrough.

For Beasley, seeing Azizulhasni achieve his Olympic ambition would be a source of immense pride, even if he is no longer working directly within Malaysia’s cycling programme when the Games arrive.

However, the focus on Azizulhasni’s LA 2028 campaign should not overshadow the wider challenges facing Malaysian cycling. The country must also develop more riders capable of competing internationally if it is to build a sustainable programme beyond the achievements of its leading star. - October 16, 2026

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