European running champion Ciara Mageean dies aged 34

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 1 Nov, 13:05 · Archive

Irish runner Ciara Mageean, a two-time Olympian and 2024 European Athletics Championships gold medallist, has died aged 34 after battling stage four bowel cancer.

Ciara Mageean, an Irish two-time Olympian, has died aged 34 after an 18-month battle with stage four bowel cancer. She was diagnosed in May 2025 and passed away on Sunday at 6:30am surrounded by her loved ones. Mageean specialised in the 1500m event and won gold at the 2024 European Athletics Championships.

Mageean married her long-term partner Thomas Moran at Belfast City Hall on 12 October, just three weeks before her death. The newlyweds shared pictures and videos of the ceremony, with Mageean describing it as an 'incredible day'.

Her family released a statement saying: 'A beloved daughter, sister, wife, friend and inspiration to so many, she will be deeply missed.' The news prompted an outpouring of tributes from across the sporting world. Aussie Olympian Jessica Hull paid tribute, saying Mageean was 'the most beautiful person in every way imaginable' and that she was grateful for every moment they shared. Chelsea footballer Katie McCabe also offered condolences.

How it is being reported

• European running champion Ciara Mageean dies aged 34, Aussie Olympian Jessica Hull pays tribute‘A beloved daughter, sister, wife, friend and inspiration to so many, she will be deeply missed.’Perth Now · 1 Nov, 12:25
• European running champion Ciara Mageean dies aged 34, Aussie Olympian Jessica Hull pays tribute‘A beloved daughter, sister, wife, friend and inspiration to so many, she will be deeply missed.’The West Australian · 1 Nov, 12:25

In this story: Ciara Mageean · Jessica Hull · Thomas Moran · Katie McCabe · Belfast City Hall · European Athletics Championships

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