Tributes have been paid to former European champion and two-time Olympian Ciara Mageean, who has died at the age of 34. Mageean, from County Down, was diagnosed with stage four bowel cancer in May 2025 and passed away on Sunday morning, surrounded by her loved ones, according to a statement posted on her social media accounts.

"A beloved daughter, sister, wife, friend and inspiration to so many, she will be deeply missed," the statement read. Mageean's death occurred less than three weeks after her marriage to her long-term partner, Thomas Moran.

Mageean represented Ireland at the 2016 and 2020 Olympic Games. In 2024, she won gold in the 1500m at the European Athletics Championships in Rome. She also secured a silver medal for Northern Ireland at the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham in 2022.

'One of Our Own'

Olympic legend Lady Mary Peters described Mageean as a "wonderful lady" who was "gracious, beautiful, talented and inspirational to the next generation." Peters, who heads a trust that supports athletes from Northern Ireland, noted that Mageean continued to inspire young people even while undergoing cancer treatment, stating she would be "sorely missed in the world of sport."

Sean Young, secretary of Portaferry Gaelic Athletic Club, where Mageean began her sporting journey, expressed disbelief and shock. He called her a "fierce competitor" and, outside of sports, an "inspirational, humble person."

The Down Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) stated it was "honoured and privileged" to claim Mageean as one of their own, highlighting her courage, positivity, and the value she placed on life during her illness.

Mageean's former school, Assumption Grammar, remembered her as a "cherished past pupil" whose "kindness, strength, faith and unwavering determination were an inspiration to us all."

'A Champion in Every Sense'

Northern Ireland's First Minister Michelle O'Neill called Mageean "a champion in every sense of the word and a role model for all athletes." O'Neill added that Mageean represented her country with pride and faced her illness with the same "bravery and determination" shown throughout her athletic career.

Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly noted that people across Northern Ireland had been "deeply proud and inspired" by the athlete, describing her as an "outstanding athlete and ambassador for her sport" who spoke with honesty about her health struggles.

Taoiseach (Irish Prime Minister) Micheál Martin and Tánaiste (Irish Deputy Prime Minister) Simon Harris extended their sympathies, with Harris noting that Mageean inspired people through her achievements and her openness about her illness, giving "strength and hope" to others.

'Self-belief and Commitment'

Athletics Ireland, the national governing body, described Mageean as "much-loved and inspirational," with her "courage, warmth and spirit" leaving a lasting legacy. World Athletics recognized her as "an inspiration to many, on and off the track," while the Camogie Association president Brian Molloy praised her "self-belief and commitment to her craft."

Mageean was named the 2023 BBC Northern Ireland Sports Personality of the Year after a successful year that included breaking national records. Broadcaster Thomas Niblock recalled an interview where Mageean, despite receiving disappointing news, insisted on proceeding, calling her "the best of us."