Jakob Ingebrigtsen Testifies Against Father in Abuse Trial

The Olympic champion described a childhood of fear, manipulation, and violence as his father faces charges of abuse spanning 14 years.

Jakob Ingebrigtsen testified in Sandnes, Norway, detailing a fear-based upbringing under his father and former coach, Gjert Ingebrigtsen.
The athlete recounted incidents of physical violence, including being struck at age eight after a negative school report, and described his father as controlling and prone to aggression.
Gjert Ingebrigtsen, who denies the charges, is accused of abusing Jakob and his sister Ingrid over a 14-year period and faces up to six years in prison if convicted.
Jakob also testified about his father’s attempts to end his relationship with now-wife Elisabeth Asserson, claiming it would harm his athletic career.
The trial, which began on March 24 and is set to continue until May 16, will next hear testimony from Ingrid, who alleges threats, insults, and physical violence.