Women’s Physique IFBB Pro Marianne von Gierke has suddenly died, according to an October 14 post from NPC Worldwide Chile.
Her death comes only weeks after a strong run on stage. In her first contest of 2026, von Gierke finished sixth at the Texas Pro, then won the Rising Phoenix Pro crown before heading to Mr. Olympia. At the recent Olympia, she moved up to 13th place, a result that reflected her upward momentum in the division.
A respected name in Women’s Physique
NPC Worldwide Chile said von Gierke “left an indelible mark on bodybuilding,” adding that she will be remembered for her dedication, discipline and the talent she brought to the Mr. Olympia stage. The organization also sent condolences to her family, friends and everyone in the bodybuilding community affected by the news.
The loss lands in a Women’s Physique division led by three-time Olympia champion Natalia Abraham Coelho, and it adds to the painful history of athletes in the category dying too soon.
Arnold Schwarzenegger has said bodybuilding is the most dangerous sport in the world and sometimes kills people, a reminder that the sport’s demands can carry real risks. But for now, the focus is on von Gierke’s life, her recent progress and the legacy she leaves behind in the IFBB ranks.
