IRISH ATHLETE CIARA Mageean has died at the age of 34. 

She represented Ireland at two Olympic Games and won 1500m gold at the 2024 European Athletics Championships.

Mageean’s death was announced on social media. This follows a diagnosis of bowel cancer last year.

“At 6.30am this morning, Ciara lost her battle with cancer surrounded by her loved ones,” a statement on her Instagram account reads.

“A beloved daughter, sister, wife, friend and inspiration to so many, she will be deeply missed. 

“Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam.”

Mageean announced her cancer diagnosis in June 2025, and issued updates as she underwent treatment. She published her memoir, My Greatest Race, earlier this year.  

Mageean won 1500m gold at the European Championships in Rome in June 2024, having previously claimed silver (2022) and bronze (2016).

She was forced to withdraw from the 2024 Olympic Games on the eve of her heat in Paris due to a long-running Achilles injury.

The Portaferry native made her Olympic debut at Rio 2016, and also featured at the 2021 Games in Tokyo, where injury also hampered her preparations.

Mageean was crowned 2022 Athletics Ireland Athlete of the Year, and took the Middle Distance honour in 2024. She holds national records over 800m, 1000m, 1500m and the mile.

A statement from Athletics Ireland read: “Athletics Ireland is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Ciara Mageean.

“Ciara was a much-loved and inspirational figure who touched the lives of so many. Her courage, warmth and spirit will leave a lasting legacy.

“The thoughts and heartfelt condolences of everyone at Athletics Ireland are with Ciara’s family, friends and loved ones at this incredibly difficult time.

“May she rest in peace.”

More to follow. 

Written by Hannah Power and posted on TheJournal.ie