Ciara Mageean, the former European 1,500m champion, has died at the age of 34.
The two-time Olympian from Portaferry, Co Down, who claimed the European title in Rome in 2024, passed away at 6.30am on Sunday. She had announced last year that she had been diagnosed with cancer.
In a post on social media, her family said she was surrounded by her loved ones when she died. "A beloved daughter, sister, wife, friend and inspiration to so many, she will be deeply missed," they said.
Mageean competed for Ireland at the 2016 and 2020 Olympic Games and held a number of Irish records during her career. Her gold medal at the 2024 European Championships in Rome made her the first individual Irish European champion since Sonia O'Sullivan.
She was unable to take part in the 2024 Olympics because of an Achilles injury, and the following year she revealed she had been diagnosed with stage 4 bowel cancer. In October, just weeks before her death, she married her partner Thomas Moran.
Ireland's political leaders were among those paying tribute. Taoiseach Micheal Martin said he was deeply saddened by the news. "My heartfelt sympathies go to her husband Thomas, all her family and friends," he wrote in a statement on the social media network X.
Tanaiste Simon Harris called the news heartbreaking. "She was a European champion, two-time Olympian, a proud Irish athlete and an extraordinary person," he said on X.
Northern Ireland's First Minister Michelle O'Neill praised Mageean's achievements and character. "From representing Ireland at two Olympic Games to winning European Championship gold in Rome in 2024, Ciara demonstrated extraordinary talent, determination and dedication," she said.
"However, beyond the medals, records and sporting accolades, Ciara will be remembered for her warmth, courage and tremendous strength of character," O'Neill continued. "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."
O'Neill added: "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." 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."
