Irish middle-distance runner Ciara Mageean, who won European gold and competed in two Olympic Games, has died aged 34, her family has announced.
The athlete, originally from Portaferry, Northern Ireland, died at 6.30am on Sunday. In a social media post, her family said she was surrounded by loved ones. They said: “A beloved daughter, sister, wife, friend and inspiration to so many, she will be deeply missed. »
Mageean was one of Ireland’s most prominent athletes, specializing in the 1500m event. She represented Ireland at the 2016 Rio Olympics and the 2020 Tokyo Games, and has held numerous Irish records.
She became Ireland’s first individual European champion since Sonia O’Sullivan when she won gold at the 2024 championships in Rome. Mageean was unable to compete in the 2024 Olympics due to an Achilles injury.
The following year, Mageean announced that she had been diagnosed with cancer. She then married her partner, Thomas Moran, in October, just weeks before his death.
Taoiseach Micheál Martin said he was deeply saddened by his untimely death. “My deepest condolences go to her husband Thomas, all her family and friends,” he said. Tánaiste Simon Harris described the news as heartbreaking. He said: “She was a European champion, a two-time Olympian, a proud Irish athlete and an extraordinary person. »
Northern Ireland First Minister Michelle O’Neill said Mageean had demonstrated “extraordinary talent, determination and dedication”. She said: “I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Ciara Mageean and would like to send my deepest condolences to her husband Tommy, her parents, family, friends and all those who loved her.
“Ciara’s achievements in athletics have brought immense pride to her local community and people across Ireland. From representing Ireland at two Olympic Games to winning gold at the European Championships in Rome in 2024, Ciara has demonstrated extraordinary talent, determination and dedication.
“However, beyond the medals, records and sporting accolades, Ciara will be remembered for her warmth, courage and immense strength of character. Throughout her illness, she demonstrated 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 comfort in knowing how much she was admired, respected and loved by so many.”
Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly said: “I am very sorry to hear of the death of Ciara Mageean, aged 34. An exceptional athlete and ambassador for her sport, Ciara was born in Portaferry, County Down, and represented Northern Ireland and primarily Ireland on the world stage.
“Ciara enjoyed exceptional success and was an inspiration to many. She spoke with such honesty and courage about the health battles she subsequently faced. I know so many people across Northern Ireland were deeply proud and inspired by Ciara. My deepest condolences to her family, teammates and friends, and to her husband to whom she recently married.”
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