Gjert Ingebrigtsen Denies Abuse Allegations During Trial, Calls Himself 'Overly Protective'

The former coach of Olympic champion Jakob Ingebrigtsen faces up to six years in prison if convicted of long-term physical and psychological abuse against two of his children.

• Gjert Ingebrigtsen, father and former coach of Jakob Ingebrigtsen, testified in Sandnes, Norway, denying allegations of abuse and describing himself as an 'overly protective' father.
• The trial involves accusations of physical and psychological abuse over a 14-year period, with Jakob and Ingrid Ingebrigtsen providing detailed testimonies of fear and manipulation.
• Prosecutors allege specific incidents of violence, including Gjert striking Jakob multiple times after a school report when he was eight years old.
• Gjert's defense argues that the demands of elite sports blurred the lines between parenting and coaching, but maintains that this did not constitute abuse.
• The trial, which began in March 2025, is expected to conclude by May 16, with Gjert facing a potential six-year prison sentence if convicted.

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