Irish athlete Ciara Mageean passes away at 34 following cancer diagnosis

Her death, attributed to cancer, occurred Sunday morning, according to a statement shared on her Instagram account. The statement confirmed she was surrounded by family during her passing.

“At 6:30am this morning, Ciara lost her battle with cancer surrounded by her loved ones,” the statement read. “A beloved daughter, sister, wife, friend and inspiration to so many, she will be deeply missed.”

Mageean secured gold in Rome two years ago, building on a silver medal performance in the 1,500m at the 2022 Munich championships. She also finished fourth at the 2023 World Athletics Championships and competed for Ireland in two Olympic Games.

Athletics Ireland expressed profound sadness at her passing, highlighting her inspirational impact and lasting legacy. “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.”

World Athletics conveyed its sorrow, describing Mageean as “an inspiration to many, on and off the track.”

Fellow athlete Jessica Hull shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, calling Mageean “the most beautiful person in every way imaginable.”

World Athletics president Sebastian Coe also offered condolences, stating, “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.”