Lavreysen Praises Azizulhasni’s Resilience Ahead of Possible Duel

NILAI, April 24 (Bernama) -- Dutch track cycling star Harrie Lavreysen has expressed deep respect for national sprint icon Datuk Mohd Azizulhasni Awang, praising his longevity and resilience ahead of a potential showdown at the 2026 Track Cycling World Cup in National Velodrome in Nilai, here tomorrow.

Lavreysen said he has long admired Mohd Azizulhasni and was particularly impressed by the Malaysian’s ability to return strongly after a heart-related condition and remain competitive at the highest level despite his age.

“I have really a lot of respect for him. I remember when I started track cycling he was already there for a long time and at my first World Championship was in 2017, he became world champion in Keirin. So I already know him for a long time.

“I thought he was gonna retire after Paris Olympics but still he is here and I didn’t expect him to be this quick at (his) age,” said the Olympic gold medallist when met by local reporters here tonight.

Lavreysen said Mohd Azizulhasni, fondly known as the ‘Pocket Rocketman’, remains a major threat and could elevate his performance further in front of the home crowd.

The 29-year-old also expressed hope that they would progress to the final and set up a blockbuster clash eagerly anticipated by local fans.

“Of course, I’m going to try to win but I think he will be in really good shape. I watched him winning in the first World Cup in Perth and I’m afraid he’s going to be even better here.

“It’s a really big race for him at his hometown, so it’s going to be tough but I really look forward to racing him. It’s been a while since we last competed against each other,” he said.

On track conditions, Lavreysen described the surface as fast and credited the indoor cooling system for helping European riders cope with the heat.

Lavreysen helped the Netherlands clinch the bronze medal in the team sprint event today and is scheduled to compete in the individual sprint and keirin events starting tomorrow.

The three-day 2026 Track Cycling World Cup, which begins today, has attracted participation from more than 40 countries and features several of the world’s top riders.

-- BERNAMA