Irish Olympian Ciara Mageean dies aged 34

Irish middle‑distance runner Ciara Mageean has died at the age of 34.

Mageean, who represented Ireland in the 1500 m at both the Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, announced a stage‑four bowel cancer diagnosis in July 2025. She confirmed her passing on social media, stating she lost her battle with cancer at 6:30 am surrounded by loved ones.

During her career, Mageean won the European 1500 m gold medal in Rome 2024 and was slated to compete at the Paris 2024 Olympics before an Achilles injury forced her out a day before the heats.

Athletics Ireland issued a statement describing her as a “much‑loved and inspirational figure” and extended condolences to her family, friends and loved ones.

Fellow Irish Olympian Phil Healy, as well as former teammates Kelly Harrington and Katie McCabe, posted tributes on Instagram, praising her courage and calling her an inspiration.

Source: Newstalk. Photo: KoolShooters / Pexels.