KUALA LUMPUR – Iran will be absent from the final leg of the UCI Track Cycling World Cup in Nilai from April 24–26 due to the ongoing war in their country, casting a sombre shadow over the highly anticipated event.
Malaysia National Cycling Federation (MNCF) president Datuk Amarjit Singh Gill confirmed today that it was “almost impossible” for the Iranian team to participate.
“I have tried to coordinate with the President of the Iran Cycling Federation, Rasoul Assadi, but he explained that travel is extremely difficult. Even reaching them is a challenge — there is often no internet connection and communication is very poor,” Amarjit told reporters in a press conference at the Renaissance Kuala Lumpur Hotel today.
Iran’s cycling infrastructure suffered significant damage during attacks on the Azadi Sports Complex in Tehran on March 5.
The federation’s dormitories and newly constructed headquarters were heavily affected, putting any international competition out of reach for their athletes.
“Above all, their safety is paramount,” Amarjit added. “Once the war is over, the Asian Cycling Confederation (ACC) will assist Iran in rebuilding their facilities. We will also raise the matter with the UCI to ensure additional support.”
Although traditionally stronger in road cycling, particularly in climbing events, Iran has maintained an active track cycling programme and has been a consistent presence at past Asian championships.
Amarjit also confirmed that Israel will not be competing at the Nilai World Cup.
On the brighter side, he praised the record turnout for the Malaysian leg.
“We have 370 riders from 46 nations, which is incredible,” he said.
“By comparison, only 30 nations competed in the opening leg in Perth, and 42 are set for the second leg in Hong Kong. Top sprinters like the Netherlands’ Harrie Lavreysen and Trinidad and Tobago’s Nicholas Paul will be on the track, making the competition comparable to the World Championships.”
Eight Malaysian riders will compete on home soil, including veteran sprinter Datuk Azizulhasni Awang, who will make his final major international appearance in Malaysia, and Shah Firdaus Sahrom, who is steadily recovering from a right knee injury sustained in February last year and repaired surgically later in the year.
The opening ceremony on April 24 will be officiated by the Sultan of Perak, Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah, adding a royal touch to the high-profile event. - April 4, 2026
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