Crown Prince Haakon of Norway issued a statement on Wednesday ahead of his stepson Marius Borg Høiby's trial, which commences next week.
The heir to the Norwegian throne expressed solidarity with all parties involved in the case.
"Our thoughts are with everyone who is affected by this case. It has an impact on the individuals, their families and all those who care about them. We understand that this is a difficult time for many of you, and we sympathise," he wrote.
Prince Haakon also voiced his trust in the Norwegian judicial system.
Norwegian Crown Prince issues rare statement ahead of stepson's trial
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"At the same time, it is reassuring to know that we live in a state governed by the rule of law," he stated, adding he was confident proceedings would be conducted properly and justly.
The Crown Prince made clear that Høiby holds no official position within the Royal House of Norway and operates independently.
However, Prince Haakon emphasised that the family bond remains strong.
"We care about him, and he is an important member of our family," he wrote in the statement.
Marius Borg Høiby's trial will soon start in Norway
| GETTYPrince Haakon stressed that his 29-year-old stepson, as a Norwegian citizen, bears identical obligations to any other person in the country whilst enjoying the same legal protections.
"He is a citizen of Norway and, as such, has the same responsibilities as everyone else — as well as the same rights," the Crown Prince stated.
Høiby's trial is scheduled to begin on February 3 at the Oslo court, with proceedings expected to conclude in mid-March.
The case encompasses 38 separate charges against the 29-year-old, who was first taken into custody in August 2024.
Marius Borg Høiby is Crown Princess Mette Marit's son
| GETTYThe allegations include four counts of rape, assault, abuse within close relationships, threatening behaviour, and violence against a public official.
Additional motoring offences and drug trafficking charges were added shortly before the trial.
Should Høiby be convicted on the most serious counts, he faces a maximum prison term of 10 years.
The Norwegian Royal House confirmed that neither Crown Prince Haakon nor Crown Princess Mette-Marit will be present in the courtroom during proceedings.
Marius Borg Hoiby is the stepson of the future king of Norway
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The Palace also announced it would refrain from commenting on the case throughout the trial period.
Petar Sekulic, Høiby's lawyer, told GB News: "Our client denies all charges of sexual abuse, as well as the majority of the charges regarding violence. He will present a detailed account of his version of events before the court."
Whilst Prince Haakon plans to maintain his regular schedule of official engagements, Princess Mette-Marit will step back from public duties.
The Crown Princess is arranging a private retreat over the coming weeks.
Princess Mette-Marit has already reduced her workload in recent months owing to her pulmonary fibrosis condition, and may require a lung transplant in future.