Chilean professional bodybuilder Marianne von Gierke, a standout athlete in the International Fitness and Bodybuilding Federation (IFBB) Pro League and a practicing attorney, died Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at the age of 40.
Her passing was confirmed in a joint statement by NPC Worldwide Chile and fellow Chilean competitor Felipe Isaac Fierro, drawing tributes from across the global strength sports community, including media outlets RXMuscle, Generation Iron, and Fitness Volt.
Von Gierke’s death comes less than three weeks after she competed on bodybuilding’s premier stage, finishing 13th in the Women’s Physique division at the 2026 Mr. Olympia in Las Vegas. An official cause of death has not been disclosed. She leaves behind an 11-year-old son and her partner of 10 years, Juan Cofré García.
Von Gierke’s death arrived at the competitive peak of her professional career, capping a 2026 campaign marked by significant milestones on the international stage:
Originally from the southernmost Magallanes region of Chile, von Gierke balanced elite athletic training with professional legal work, establishing a reputation as a pioneer for South American female athletes:
NPC Worldwide Chile published a tribute honoring von Gierke’s discipline, sportsmanship, and national representation:
“Today we bid farewell with deep sorrow to an athlete who left an indelible mark on bodybuilding. We will remember her for her dedication, discipline, and for bringing her talent to the stage of Mr. Olympia, leaving a legacy in her category and inspiring those who shared this passion with her. Her effort, career, and all that she achieved will remain in the memory of our sporting community.”
While authorities and family members have not released details surrounding her sudden death, the loss of another active competitor at age 40 has renewed public conversations regarding the extreme cardiovascular, hormonal, and metabolic stresses associated with modern professional bodybuilding.
The Women’s Physique category has suffered similar unexpected losses in recent years, including the death of Australian IFBB Pro Kristyn Lia at age 39.
The recurring health crises among active competitors have prompted sharp commentary from sport legends, including seven-time Mr. Olympia winner Arnold Schwarzenegger, who has repeatedly warned that the extreme diuretic protocols, rapid dehydration, and chemical enhancements used to achieve stage conditioning make modern bodybuilding one of the most physically perilous sports in the world.
