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Jakob Ingebrigtsen Testifies Against Father in Abuse Trial

The Olympic champion detailed years of alleged physical and psychological abuse by his father and former coach, Gjert Ingebrigtsen, during testimony in a Norwegian court.

Jakob Ingebrigtsen and legal counsel Mette Yvonne Larsen walk after the lunch break at South Rogaland District Court, Sandnes, Norway March 25, 2025. NTB/Lise Aserud/via REUTERS
Defense lawyer for Gjert Ingebrigtsen, John Christian Elden, Prosecutor Angjerd Kvernenes, Jakob Ingebrigtsen, and defense attorney Mette Yvonne Larsen appear at South Rogaland District Court, Sandnes, Norway March 25, 2025. NTB/Lise Aserud/via REUTERS
Jakob Ingebrigtsen and legal counsel Mette Yvonne Larsenat appear at South Rogaland District Court, Sandnes, Norway March 25, 2025. NTB/Lise Aserud/via REUTERS
Ingebrigtsen — in court on Tuesday — alleged that Gjert, his father, threatened to “shame him and beat him to death” during one argument

Overview

  • Jakob Ingebrigtsen testified in Sandnes, Norway, describing a childhood marked by fear, control, and manipulation under his father, Gjert Ingebrigtsen.
  • The allegations include incidents of physical violence, such as being struck in the head multiple times at age eight and being kicked in the stomach after falling off a scooter.
  • Gjert Ingebrigtsen, who denies the charges, faces up to six years in prison if convicted of abusing Jakob and his sister Ingrid over a 14-year period.
  • Jakob also recounted his father's attempts to disrupt his relationship with his now-wife, Elisabeth Asserson, fearing it would harm his athletic career.
  • The trial, which began this week and is expected to run until May 16, will include testimony from all seven of Gjert's children and other witnesses, including figures from the Norwegian Athletics Federation.