Quality race expected despite pro teams’ absence

Voyage chief executive officer Datuk Ahmad Mustafa has downplayed any rift with the Malaysian National Cycling Federation (MNCF).

MNCF president Datuk Abu Samah Wahab caused a stir on Wednesday with his comments regarding the possibility of the race’s 2.HC status being withdrawn due to the absence of pro tour teams this year.

UCI-appointed chief commissaire Sven Calus, however, refuted this yesterday.

Ahmad said Human Voyage, the organiser of LTdL for 20192021, is determined to deliver a quality race this year.

“MNCF are the sanctioning body and as it is right now we do not expect any negative remarks.

“We are very much focused on the race,” said Ahmad, after the presentation of Resorts World Genting as a sponsor of the race in Putrajaya yesterday.

“Whatever negative remarks there are, we just put aside for now. We just want to move forward and deliver a good race for the sake of the fans and the country.”

Ahmad added that he is expecting to welcome the return of pro tour teams in the race next year when the event celebrates its silver jubilee.

“This has not been confirmed yet but we are hoping to hold the race earlier in the season next year.

“This is to run away (avoid clashing) with other races in Europe.

“With the new date we are confident of getting these pro tour teams to compete.

“That is one of the plans for next year, 2020 is going to be the 25th edition of the race and we are planning bigger things.

“We want to make cycling better known — focus more on the technology and the sports science.

“We want to follow in the footsteps of Formula One and MotoGP, where even little children know the name of the drivers and riders.”

Ahmad had earlier disclosed that this year’s dates for the race had clashed with a number of key races in Europe which made it tough to attract pro tour teams.

The race will begin in Kuala Lumpur tomorrow.