Two-time Olympian and former European champion Ciara Mageean passed away at the age of 34. Ciara, from Portaferry in Northern Ireland, was diagnosed with stage four bowel cancer in May 2025. In October this year, Mageean married her long-term partner Thomas Moran in a small ceremony in Belfast.
A statement posted on her social media on Sunday said: “At 6.30 am 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 (may her soul be at the right hand of God).”
Talented Athlete Gone Too Soon
Ciara showed her talent from a very young age, winning silver medals in the 1500m at the 2010 World Junior Championships and 2011 European Junior Championships. She also reached the 1500m final at the 2010 Commonwealth Games.
However, injuries affected her early career. An ankle injury ruled her out of the London 2012 Olympics, while surgery in 2013 delayed her progress. She, however, went on to represent Northern Ireland in two back-to-back Olympics in 2016 and 2022; however, she was forced to withdraw from the Paris Olympics due to an injury.
Meanwhile, Mageean won bronze at the 2016 European Championships and silver medals at the European and Commonwealth Games in 2022. After finishing fourth at the 2023 World Championships, Mageean achieved the biggest win of her career by claiming 1500m gold at the 2024 European Championships in Rome.
Athletic World Mourns Ciara’s Demise
Meanwhile, Athletics Ireland and World Athletics also mourned the demise of the athlete.
“We are heartbroken. An inspiration to so many, Ciara will be remembered for her courage, kindness and incredible spirit. Our deepest sympathies are with her family, friends and loved ones at this difficult time. Rest in peace, Ciara,” the statement from Athletics Ireland read.
“It is with great sadness that we learned of Ciara’s passing this morning at such a young age. A European champion and inspiration to many, it is a sad day for our sport – her loss will be felt across the athletics community,” said World Athletics President Sebastian Coe.
“On behalf of everyone at World Athletics and the wider athletics family, I send our sincere condolences to Ciara’s family and loved ones.