Irish Olympian Ciara Mageean has been described as a “champion in every sense of the word” following her death aged 34.

Political leaders across the island of Ireland have expressed profound sadness at the news of the passing of the former European champion and twice Olympian from Portaferry, Co Down, at 6.30am on Sunday.

In a post on social media, her family said she was surrounded by her loved ones.

They said: “A beloved daughter, sister, wife, friend and inspiration to so many, she will be deeply missed.”

Mageean was one of the most high-profile athletes in Ireland, specialising in the middle-distance running 1,500m event.

She represented Ireland at both the 2016 Rio Olympics and 2020 Tokyo Olympics, as well as holding a slew of Irish records.

She went on to become the first individual Irish European champion since Sonia O’Sullivan when she struck gold at the 2024 championships in Rome.

Mageean was unable to compete at the 2024 Olympics due to an Achilles injury.

The following year, Mageean announced she had been diagnosed with cancer.

There were shockwaves across Ireland and the sporting community when Mageean revealed her diagnosis of stage four cancer of the bowel with a likely terminal prognosis.

She went on to marry her partner Thomas Moran in October just weeks before her death.

Mageean has been described as someone who “never forgot her roots”.

The runner had played camogie as a youngster with Portaferry GAC.

Down GAA said she was proud of her roots and remained closely connected, being at matches when she could, cheering on club and county, and sending messages of support and inspiration.

“Ciara Mageean never forgot her sense of place and community.

“We in Down GAA were honoured and privileged to be able to say that Ciara was one of our own, she touched the lives of so many people and she helped change the lives of so many, she gave us many great moments of joy, when we all could feel a part of her successes and in her battle with illness she showed us courage, positivity and the value of life,” they said in a statement.

Irish President Catherine Connolly expressed deep sadness.

“Throughout that remarkable career, Ciara stood out not just for her exceptional talent, but for her strength and perseverance, for her clear speaking, and for her determination to succeed,” she said.

“It was these qualities that led the public to appreciate her so much, and to be so thrilled for her achievement in Rome.

“Since Ciara shared the news of her illness, the public have stood with her, and their affection for her has only grown.

“She showed the same qualities that marked her running career, and has been a source of inspiration to so many people in their own struggles.

“During this time she also showed her care for others in her advocacy for those suffering in Gaza and other conflicts, ensuring attention for those most in need.

“She was much loved and will be greatly missed.

“May I express my deepest condolences to Ciara’s husband Thomas, to all of her family, friends and fellow athletes, and to all those whose lives she touched.”

Taoiseach Micheál Martin said he was deeply saddened at her untimely passing.

“My heartfelt sympathies go to her husband Thomas, all her family and friends,” he said in a statement on the social media network X.

Tánaiste Simon Harris described the news as heartbreaking.

He said on X: “She was a European champion, two-time Olympian, a proud Irish athlete and an extraordinary person.”

Northern Ireland’s First Minister Michelle O’Neill said Mageean demonstrated “extraordinary talent, determination and dedication”.

“I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Ciara Mageean, and I want to extend my heartfelt condolences to her husband Tommy, her parents, family, friends and everyone who loved her,” she said.

“Ciara’s achievements in athletics brought immense pride to her local community and to people right across Ireland.

“From representing Ireland at two Olympic Games to winning European Championship gold in Rome in 2024, Ciara demonstrated extraordinary talent, determination and dedication.

“However, beyond the medals, records and sporting accolades, Ciara will be remembered for her warmth, courage and tremendous strength of character.

“Throughout her illness, she showed a remarkable spirit and an incredible ability to find hope and joy in life, even in the most difficult circumstances. Her courage touched countless people and will leave a lasting legacy.

“For a community like Portaferry, this loss will be deeply felt. Ciara was one of our own, and the pride she brought to her community and beyond will never be forgotten.

“At this incredibly difficult time, I hope her family and loved ones can take some comfort from knowing just how deeply she was admired, respected and loved by so many people.”

Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly said: “I am so sorry to hear of the death of Ciara Mageean, at the age of 34 years.

“An outstanding athlete and ambassador for her sport, Ciara was born in Portaferry, County Down, and represented Northern Ireland and predominantly Ireland on the world stage.

“Ciara had outstanding success and was an inspiration to many. She spoke with such honesty and bravery about the health battles she subsequently faced. I know so many from right across Northern Ireland were deeply proud and inspired by Ciara.

“My deepest condolences to her family, teammates and friends, and her husband, whom she had so recently married.”