The Norwegian Royal Family have been forced to make major changes to their upcoming engagements as Crown Princess Mette-Marit's health continues to decline. Crown Prince Haakon has cut short an official trip to Japan, while their daughter, Princess Ingrid Alexandra, is returning home from her studies in Australia.
Crown Princess Mette-Marit has been suffering from pulmonary fibrosis, a progressive lung condition with no cure. She was seen earlier this year using an oxygen mask during public engagements. In recent weeks, her condition has deteriorated significantly, with Crown Prince Haakon telling local media that his wife is "gravely ill" and that he is "worried about her health." He added that she uses oxygen daily, but it is "not an entirely satisfactory solution."
A statement from the Norwegian Palace confirmed that the Crown Prince is shortening his official trip to Japan by one day due to the Crown Princess's health situation. He was due to be hosted by Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako, and while his visit to Tokyo and a state dinner will still go ahead, his trip to Hachinohe has been called off.
Meanwhile, Princess Ingrid Alexandra will take a break from her studies at the University of Sydney to be with her mother. Crown Prince Haakon said she "plans to come home soon" and that she "wants to be with her mother." He added that she still intends to complete her studies in Australia, but it is not yet known how long she will remain in Oslo.
The Crown Princess was diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis in 2018, a condition that typically has a life expectancy of five to ten years after diagnosis. At the end of 2025, doctors said they would begin considering the possibility of a lung transplant for her.
In addition to her health struggles, Crown Princess Mette-Marit has faced a difficult period. Her son, Marius Borg Høiby, has been charged with 32 counts, including alleged rape, abuse in a close relationship, violence, death threats, and traffic violations. During his trial, it also emerged that the Crown Princess had a friendship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, after she was named in the Epstein files. She later said she was "manipulated and deceived" by the late financier.
