Irish Olympian and European champion Ciara Mageean dies aged 34

Ireland’s European 1500 metres gold medallist Ciara Mageean has died at the age of 34 after suffering from cancer.Two-time Olympian Mageean, who won the European title in Rome in 2024, announced last year she had been diagnosed with cancer.A statement on her Instagram account on Sunday read: “At 6:30am this morning, Ciara lost her battle with cancer surrounded by her loved ones. A beloved daughter, sister, wife, friend and inspiration to so many, she will be deeply missed.”A statement from Athletics Ireland read: “Athletics Ireland is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Ciara Mageean.“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.“The thoughts and heartfelt condolences of everyone at Athletics Ireland are with Ciara’s family, friends and loved ones at this incredibly difficult time.“May she rest in peace.”f reland's Ciara Mageean celebrates with her bronze medal on the podium after finishing third in the Women's 1500m Final (PA)The athlete was from Portaferry, Co Down, Ireland.In a post on social media, her family said she was surrounded by her loved ones.They said: “A beloved daughter, sister, wife, friend and inspiration to so many, she will be deeply missed.”Tánaiste Simon Harris described the news as heartbreaking.He said on X: “She was a European champion, two-time Olympian, a proud Irish athlete and an extraordinary person.”Northern Ireland’s First Minister Michelle O’Neill said Mageean demonstrated “extraordinary talent, determination and dedication”.“I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Ciara Mageean, and I want to extend my heartfelt condolences to her husband Tommy, her parents, family, friends and everyone who loved her,” she said.“Ciara’s achievements in athletics brought immense pride to her local community and to people right across Ireland.“From representing Ireland at two Olympic Games to winning European Championship gold in Rome in 2024, Ciara demonstrated extraordinary talent, determination and dedication.“However, beyond the medals, records and sporting accolades, Ciara will be remembered for her warmth, courage and tremendous strength of character.“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.“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 some comfort from knowing just how deeply she was admired, respected and loved by so many people.”Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly said: “I am so sorry to hear of the death of Ciara Mageean, at the age of 34 years.“An outstanding athlete and ambassador for her sport, Ciara was born in Portaferry, County Down, and represented Northern Ireland and predominantly Ireland on the world stage.“Ciara had outstanding success, and was an inspiration to many. She spoke with such honesty and bravery about the health battles she subsequently faced. I know so many from right across Northern Ireland were deeply proud and inspired by Ciara.“My deepest condolences to her family, teammates and friends, and her husband to whom she had so recently married.”