Irish Olympian and European champion Ciara Mageean dies aged 34

Ireland‘s European 1500 metres gold medallist Ciara Mageean has died at the age of 34 after suffering from cancer.

Two-time Olympian Mageean, who won the European title in Rome in 2024, announced last year she had been diagnosed with cancer.

A statement on her Instagram account on Sunday read: “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.”

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.

f reland’s Ciara Mageean celebrates with her bronze medal on the podium after finishing third in the Women’s 1500m Final (PA)

The athlete was from Portaferry, Co Down, Ireland.

In a post on social media, her family said she was surrounded by her loved ones.

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

Tánaiste Simon Harris described the news as heartbreaking.

He said on X: “She was a European champion, two-time Olympian, a proud Irish athlete and an extraordinary person.”