Lebanese driver who called cyclist 'Aussie scum' says he was provoked
The Lebanese driver who launched a shocking road rage attack on a 23-year-old cyclist has apologised for his actions, but said he was "provoked."
On Wednesday just before 8am, the bike rider started filming Milad Ayoub, 45, as he got out of his white ute in Summer Hill, in Sydney's inner west, and started yelling "Aussie scum."
A day later, Mr Ayoub apologised, saying he "takes it all back" and the cyclist, who chose to remain anonymous, said he feared for his life.
"He used racial epithets, yelled at me and threatened me," the young cyclist said.
He said he jumped into a stranger's car to try and escape.
Mr Ayoub has since presented himself to Ashfield station and is assisting police with inquiries.
"I said to the police I slapped him and threatened his life - of course you take it all back," he told reporters.
"How many people do things and then regret it later on?"
The start of the footage shows a bike on the road with a crushed rear wheel as Mr Ayoub gets out of his vehicle.
"I'm Lebanese, mate," he says to the cyclist before appearing to force him to the ground.
"I'm going to f*** your life."
The cyclist can be heard groaning as he is attacked and the driver repeatedly threatens to "follow him" and "destroy his life."
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After he manages to stand up, the driver then follows him pointing and swearing.
The fight is believed to have started after the bike and vehicle almost collided.
The cyclist said he injured his arm and his back in the attack.
Police confirmed they are investigating the incident.
