Gjert Ingebrigtsen in podcast: – A good opportunity to apologize

Norwegian athletics coach Gjert Ingebrigtsen has publicly apologized for his role in the conflict with his children. Speaking on Stavanger Aftenblad's podcast "Jonas," Ingebrigtsen stated, "This is a good opportunity to apologize." He acknowledged that the responsibility for the current situation lies with him, expressing the guilt and shame he carries.

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This is a good opportunity to apologize.

Ingebrigtsen was acquitted of abuse allegations against two of his children but received a 15-day suspended sentence for assault against his daughter. Reflecting on the legal proceedings and their aftermath, he admitted he should have handled things differently and made other choices. "But this is my fault, not legally, but it is my fault and my responsibility that we have ended up in this situation," he said. He hopes that by admitting his mistakes, he can begin to repair the relationships.

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I had done my best to offer a heartfelt apology for where we are. There is no doubt that the responsibility is mine.

Since the estrangement from his sons, Jakob, Filip, and Henrik Ingebrigtsen, in the winter of 2022, Gjert Ingebrigtsen has been unable to obtain accreditation for major international athletic events, including the World Championships and the Olympics. His sons have indicated they do not wish to encounter him at sporting events. Ingebrigtsen's recent collaboration with athlete Narve Gilje Nordås also ended abruptly. He was present at the European Championships in Birmingham as a personal coach for Portuguese athletes but was denied accreditation due to "safeguarding rules" set by World Athletics, which protect athletes from harassment and abuse.

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But this is my fault, not legally, but it is my fault and my responsibility that we have ended up in this situation. The guilt and shame I carry with me for the rest of my life.