Irish track legend Ciara Mageean has died aged 34.
The athlete passed away following a battle with Stage 4 bowel cancer, with her family confirming the sad news in a statement shared on social media.
“At 6:30am this morning, Ciara lost her battle with cancer surrounded by her loved ones,” the statement began.
“A beloved daughter, sister, wife, friend and inspiration to so many, she will be deeply missed. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam (May her soul be at the right hand of God).”
Mageean was diagnosed with cancer in May 2025 before going public with her battle earlier this year.
She had just tied the knot with her long-term partner Thomas Moran, a few weeks before her passing, with tributes pouring in from fellow athletes all over the world.
“There are no words. Just the most beautiful person in every way imaginable. You will be so missed, our hearts and love are with Tommy and your family,” a tribute from Australian Olympic 1500m silver medallist Jess Hull read.
“Lucky to have shared some miles with you but even more special to have celebrated milestones at the finish line together, I’m so grateful for every moment, rest easy Ciara,” she continued.
“Rest in peace Ciara. Sending all my love, thoughts and prayers,” Irish football star Katie McCabe commented.
A tribute from World Athletics read: “Heartbreaking news. A fighter on and off the track. Our thoughts are with her family, friends and the entire athletics community. She will be deeply missed.”
“What a light you were Ciara. You will be so missed- such a special person on and off the track,” American long-distance runner Molly Huddle commented.
Her former teammate Phil Healy described her as “truly the most amazing person”, while former world race-walking champion Rob Heffernan hailed her as a gift to the world.
Mageean was a two-time Olympian, representing Ireland in the 1500m at both the Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020 Games.
She also won a European gold medal at the 2024 Rome championships, and qualified for the 2024 Paris Games, but sadly injured her achilles the day before the race.
Her earlier achievements include taking home the European bronze in 2016, silver in 2022, and a Commonwealth Games silver in 2022
She also holds the national records in the 800m, 1000m, 1500m and mile category in Ireland.
Image: Instagram
