Irish runner Ciara Mageean who won at the 2024 European Championships, has died at 34 following a bowel cancer diagnosis announced last year. The news of the two-time Olympics star's death broke via a statement on her Instagram page Sunday morning.
Olympic Runner's Death Shocks Track & Field Community
Mageean's defining moment came at the 2024 European Championships in Rome just two years ago. There, she claimed the 1,500-meter title after earning silver in the same event in Munich.
She also finished just off the podium at the 2023 World Championships in Budapest, placing fourth in a stacked 1,500-meter field.
Athletics Ireland, Fellow Runners Mourn Mageean
Athletics Ireland called Mageean "a much-loved and inspirational figure," adding that "her courage, warmth and spirit will leave a lasting legacy." World Athletics president Sebastian Coe echoed that sentiment, noting her loss "will be felt across the athletics community."
Olympic 1,500-meter silver medalist Jessica Hull called Mageean "the most beautiful person in every way imaginable."
"Lucky to have shared some miles with you but even more special to have celebrated milestones at the finish line together," Hull wrote. "I'm so grateful for every moment, rest easy Ciara."
