Gjert Ingebrigtsen denies abuse against Olympic champion Jakob, faces trial

Gjert Ingebrigtsen, the father and former coach of Olympic champion Jakob Ingebrigtsen, is on trial for allegedly physically abusing his children. He has pleaded not guilty to charges of abuse against Jakob and his daughter Ingrid, claiming he was an 'overly protective' father. During the trial, Jakob testified about a childhood filled with fear and manipulation, recounting specific instances of violence, including being struck by his father. Gjert, facing up to six years in prison if convicted, acknowledged that he could be demanding as a coach but denied all allegations of violence, emphasizing his love for his children. He described an incident involving Ingrid, insisting that any contact with a towel was minimal and regrettable. The trial is set to continue until mid-May in Sandnes, Norway.