Gjert Ingebrigtsen Denies Abuse Claims in Ongoing Trial

Gjert Ingebrigtsen, the father of Olympic champion Jakob Ingebrigtsen, is on trial in Norway for allegedly abusing his children, including accusations of physical and psychological violence. He denies the charges, claiming he was an 'overly protective' father who aimed to help his ambitious children. The trial, which may last until May 16, has seen Jakob and his sister Ingrid testify about a childhood filled with fear and manipulation, describing incidents of violence, including one where Gjert allegedly struck Jakob after receiving a negative school report. Gjert, who became a father at 22, explained that his protective nature stemmed from his own upbringing and expressed love for his children, despite the serious allegations against him. The case has garnered significant attention, especially following an op-ed by Jakob and his brothers in October 2023 that prompted a police investigation. If convicted, Gjert Ingebrigtsen faces up to six years in prison.