Although details about the cause of death have not been revealed, it is known that Mena was hospitalized in a healthcare center in Medellín for several days before his death. Those close to the family have requested respect for the privacy of Ibargüenwho has preferred to stay away from the media at this painful moment. According to her representative, the athlete was next to his mother in his last moments, giving him all the support possible.
Various institutions, such as Antioquia Governorate and the Departmental Sports Institutehave also expressed their regret for the loss. “Caterine Ibargüen Mena, in this difficult time, the Indeportes Antioquia family embraces and accompanies you. May the strength to overcome this challenge be present with you and your family”they noted in a statement.
The Olympic Committee also spoke out and sent a message of condolences to the athlete “With respect and affection, the executive committee of the Colombian Olympic Committee, chaired by Ciro Solano Hurtado, pays tribute to the memory of Francisca Mena, mother of our Olympic champion and Caterine Ibargüen World Cup”.
🕊️ With respect and affection, the executive committee of the Colombian Olympic Committee, chaired by Ciro Solano Hurtado, pays tribute to the memory of Francisca Mena, mother of our Olympic and world champion Caterine Ibargüen. 🙏🏻 pic.twitter.com/WWATlEVTQj
— COL Olympic Committee (@OlimpicoCol) October 11, 2024
The figure of Francisca Mena was key in the sports development of his daughter, who on several occasions has publicly mentioned the unconditional support that he received from his mother throughout his career. Many of the triumphs that Ibarguen has achieved in the most prestigious competitions in the world, he has dedicated them to her.
As the country accompanies the athlete in her mourning, it is expected that in the coming days more details about the obsequies of Francisca Mena. Meanwhile, Caterine Ibarguen He receives the love and solidarity of the sports community, which recognizes not only his career, but also the pillar that his mother represented in his life.