Olympic 5000m champion says he has “no motives for lying” as prosecutors call for two-and-a-half jail term for his father
Jakob Ingebrigtsen told a court in Norway this week that he finds it “embarrassing to be a victim of domestic violence”.
The 24-year-old was speaking on the final day of the trial of his father and former coach, Gjert.
Prosecutors have recommended that Gjert is given a jail sentence of two-and-a-half years for physically and verbally abusing Jakob and his younger sister, Ingrid, although Gjert’s legal team have questioned the allegations and called for a complete acquittal.
“It is embarrassing to be a victim of domestic violence,” Jakob said. “I know what I have experienced with the defendant since I was a little boy and I have had no motives for lying. It is embarrassing to be a victim for our family and it does not fit into the image you have of yourself and your family. We will all carry baggage with us from this trial.”
He added: “For me and my siblings, the court proceedings in Sandnes have had major and harrowing consequences, regardless of what the verdict will be. We have known this all along, yet it was important to tell our story.”
Citing the predicament of others, he said: “Many children experience similar challenges to those we have talked about. Many have it worse. I sincerely hope that these are not forgotten when the cameras are turned off in the district court.
“There have been many of them, and, of course, I have noticed that the trial has dominated the newspaper headlines every day. It has been a great burden and something I would have liked to have avoided. At the same time, I respect that it had to be this way. Several of us have sought publicity. And I am glad that we have a system of governance where the press can shed light on what is happening in court.
“I feel a great sense of relief now that I no longer have to hide anything. Will this affect me as an athlete? Absolutely. But it has also brought us siblings and my new family closer together. That means more than anything else.
“One thing has not changed, however: I still do not want to answer questions from the press about this case. My story has been thoroughly explained in court. On the other hand, my little prayer and appeal to all of you journalists who have followed the case and are still burning with questions is: instead, use the power you have to mention those who really need mentioning.
“Ask instead how we can help all those children who are not doing well. Those who are not in a position to move on with their lives. Not all of them can run away from their problems, like I have.”
A verdict is expected on June 16.
