Jakob Ingebrigtsen’s father and former coach faces trial on abuse charges

The father of Jakob Ingebrigtsen, the renowned Norwegian middle-distance runner, is facing trial on charges of allegedly abusing his son.

Over the weekend, the 24-year-old Jakob solidified his status as one of the globe’s elite athletes by clinching gold medals in both the 3,000 metres and 1,500 metres events at the World Indoor Championships in China.

His father, Gjert, who previously coached him, could potentially serve up to six years in prison if found guilty of a reported 14-year history of domestic abuse that is said to include Jakob’s younger sister.

In court, the defence team showcased the first episode of the TV series Team Ingebrigtsen, asserting that if there were any evidence of abuse, the filmmakers would have discovered it during their time with the family.

“This domestic abuse claim stands out because of the productions centred around the family in training camps, on holidays, and in their daily lives. If there had been any systemic abuse, it would have come to light,” stated Gjert’s defence lawyer, Heidi Reisvang, in comments to the Associated Press.

Reisvang went on to emphasise that the court should distinguish between the roles of coach and father. “It’s apparent that someone preparing to be a world champion has a different upbringing than most, and there are strict rules regarding nutrition, rest, and training,” she articulated.

Gjert gained recognition in Norway after featuring in the Team Ingebrigtsen series from 2016, which showcased his coaching of his three running sons, Jakob, Filip, and Henrik.

The series continued until 2021, but by 2022, the three brothers had severed ties with their father-coach. In the following year, they jointly authored a piece in the leading newspaper VG, alleging physical violence and intimidation from Gjert.

This prompted a police investigation, which led to the court case concerning Gjert’s treatment of Jakob and his sister.

On Monday, the prosecution outlined the charges, which pertain to violations of sections 219 and 282 of the Norwegian Penal Code, concerning maltreatment within close relationships.

When asked how he pleaded, Gjert responded, “not guilty.”

Following his split with his sons, Gjert continued to coach, currently working with Jakob’s competitor for the 1500 metres, Narve Gilje Nordas, who is expected to testify in his defence during the trial.

Jakob was not present on the first day of the trial but is scheduled to provide testimony on Tuesday after flying back from Nanjing, China, covering roughly 8,000 kilometres to reach the Sør-Rogaland District Court in his hometown of Sandnes on Norway’s west coast.

The trial is projected to last until May 16.