Former Olympian Ciara Mageean dies after battle with cancer

Ciara Mageean, the 34‑year‑old former Olympian and 2024 European 1500m champion, has died.

The Portaferry, County Down native was diagnosed with bowel cancer in July 2023 and fought the illness for more than a year. Her family confirmed that she passed away at 6:30 am this morning, surrounded by loved ones.

Mageean represented Ireland at the Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, earning widespread respect for her dedication and performances. The highlight of her career came at the 2024 European Championships in Rome, where she surged through the pack to claim gold in the women’s 1500m, delivering a memorable victory for Irish athletics.

Her family described her as a beloved daughter, sister, wife, friend and inspiration to many, and said she will be deeply missed across the Irish athletics community.

Source: Donegal Daily. Photo: cottonbro studio / Pexels.