Ciara Mageean, former European 1,500-meter running champion and two-time Olympian for Ireland, has died peacefully after being diagnosed with terminal colorectal cancer last year.
International news agencies reported that Ciara Mageean, former European 1,500-meter champion and two-time Irish Olympic athlete, passed away peacefully on Sunday morning at age 34, after battling stage 4 colorectal cancer diagnosed in May 2025.
"At 06:30 this morning, Ciara lost her battle with cancer, surrounded by loved ones. She was a daughter, sister, wife, beloved friend, and an inspiration to many. She will be deeply missed," read a statement posted on Ciara's social media.
The Athletics Association of Ireland issued a statement: "Our hearts are deeply broken. Ciara inspired many, and people will remember her for her courage, kindness, and wonderful spirit. We extend our deepest sympathies to her family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time. Rest in peace, Ciara."
Ciara Mageean was born and raised in Portaferry, Northern Ireland. She showed athletic talent from a young age, initially playing Camogie, a traditional Irish sport, before deciding to pursue her dream of becoming a track athlete representing Ireland at the Olympics.
Her talent emerged after winning silver medals in the 1,500 meters at the 2010 World Junior Championships and the 2011 European Junior Championships, as well as reaching the final at the 2010 Commonwealth Games at just 18 years old.
Ciara represented Ireland at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics and the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, and won gold in the 1,500 meters at the 2024 European Championships in Rome, the biggest title of her running career.
However, at the 2024 Paris Olympics, she had to withdraw before competing due to a hamstring injury.
Ciara was diagnosed with stage 4 colorectal cancer in May 2025. Nevertheless, in October of the same year, she married her longtime partner Thomas Moran in a small wedding ceremony in Belfast.
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Source:BBC