Ciara Mageean: Tributes pour in as Irish athletics star dies aged just 34

Ciara Mageean has sadly died aged just 34. The star of Irish athletics who represented her country at two Olympics and won a European Championship gold, lost her battle with Stage 4 bowel cancer this morning. Her death was confirmed by her family on social media, who described her as a "beloved daughter, sister, wife friend and inspiration to so many."

They said: "At 6:30am this morning, Ciara lost her battle with cancer surrounded by her loved ones. A beloved daughter, sister, wife, friend and inspiration to so many, she will be deeply missed. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam."

Ms Mageean, the reigning 2024 European 1,500m champion, was regarded one of Ireland's greatest ever track athletes. She competed for Team Ireland at both the Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, and holds multiple national records including the 800m, 1,000m, and 1,500m.

Alongside her gold in 2024, she won European silver in 2022 and European bronze in 2016. She also won a Commonwealth Games silver medal while representing Northern Ireland in 2022.

Ms Mageean, who was born in Portaferry, County Down, was diagnosed with stage four bowel cancer in May 2025. Following her diagnosis, she raised awareness about early bowel cancer symptoms in younger people.

She married her long-term partner Thomas Moran in Belfast just weeks ago. Fans have now paid tribute to her, with one supporter dubbing her "one of the most inspirational Irish athletes."

They said: "One of the most inspirational Irish athletes, courageous on and off the track. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam."

Another added: "A devastating loss for an incredible woman gone far too soon. The world is and always will be a better place because of her."

A third wrote: "The most dreadful news. Ciara was one of the soundest women I knew."

A fourth posted a video of her racing with the caption: "This is how we'll remember Ciara. Never ever ever gave up."

"Much-loved and inspirational figure"

Athletics Ireland said in a statement: "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."

Leas-Uachtarán Shinn Féin Michelle O’Neill added: "I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Ciara Mageean, and I want to extend my heartfelt condolences to her husband Tommy, her parents, family, friends and everyone who loved her.

"Ciara’s achievements in athletics brought immense pride to her local community and to people right across Ireland. From representing Ireland at two Olympic Games to winning European Championship gold in Rome in 2024, Ciara demonstrated extraordinary talent, determination and dedication.

"However, beyond the medals, records and sporting accolades, Ciara will be remembered for her warmth, courage and tremendous strength of character. Throughout her illness, she showed a remarkable spirit and an incredible ability to find hope and joy in life, even in the most difficult circumstances. Her courage touched countless people and will leave a lasting legacy.

"For a community like Portaferry, this loss will be deeply felt. Ciara was one of our own, and the pride she brought to her community and beyond will never be forgotten.

"At this incredibly difficult time, I hope her family and loved ones can take some comfort from knowing just how deeply she was admired, respected and loved by so many people. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam."