“We are heartbroken” – European champion Ciara Mageean dies at the age of 34

Irish middle-distance runner and two-time Olympian Ciara Mageean has died aged 34. The top athlete announced in July 2025 that she had been diagnosed with cancer. At the beginning of October this year she married her long-term partner Thomas Moran in a small civil wedding in Belfast. Now she has died of the serious illness.

A statement posted to her Instagram on Sunday said: "This morning at 6:30am, surrounded by her loved ones, Ciara lost her battle with cancer. A beloved daughter, sister, wife, friend and inspiration to so many people, she will be sorely missed."

The Irish Athletics Association also remembered her and wrote in a statement: "We are heartbroken. Ciara, who was an inspiration to so many, will be remembered for her courage, kindness and incredible life force. Our deepest condolences go out to her family, friends and loved ones at this difficult time. Rest in peace, Ciara."