The trial of Marius Borg Hoiby, the son of Norway’s Crown Princess Mette-Marit, has been scheduled for early next year. Hoiby denies the most serious allegations.
Defence lawyer Ellen Holager Andenæs confirmed to Norwegian newspaper VG that proceedings will begin on February 3, 2026.
According to Nettavisen, which first reported the case, the trial is expected to run until March 14, 2026.
Hoiby, 28, faces charges relating to 32 separate alleged offences. These include four counts of rape, domestic abuse, threats, and covert filming of women without their consent.
Norwegian Princess’s son to face trial for rape and domestic abuse charges as court dates confirmed
|GETTY
These actions are alleged to have spanned from 2018 to 2024, with some of the allegations dating from after police initiated their investigation.
As the eldest child of Crown Princess Mette-Marit, Hoiby grew up largely outside the royal spotlight.
He is the Princess’s son from her relationship with journalist Morten Borg, prior to her marriage to Crown Prince Haakon in 2001.
While he has not been given a royal title and does not undertake official duties, he has long been a familiar name to Norwegians as part of the extended Royal Family.
Marius Borg Hoiby is the eldest son of Norwegian Crown Princess Mette-Marit | GETTY
The case will be closely followed both in Norway and internationally, given his connection to the royal household.
The timing of the trial also means it will overlap with a period of high visibility for the monarchy, as King Harald V has scaled back his duties and Crown Prince Haakon takes on more responsibility.
The 28-year-old has denied the most serious accusations against him, including those of rape and domestic violence.
Petar Sekulic, Mr Høiby's lawyer, told GB News earlier this month: "Our client denies all charges of sexual abuse, as well as the majority of the charges regarding violence.
Marius Borg Høiby with his stepfather Crown Prince Haakon | GETTY"He will present a detailed account of his version of events before the court."
Meanwhile, the Norwegian royal Palace's spokeswoman, Sara Svanemyr, said in a statement: “It is up to the courts to hear this case and to reach a decision.”
Hoiby has always been considered a private individual rather than a working royal, and as such has typically been shielded from official Palace communication.
However, his family connection to Crown Princess Mette-Marit and Crown Prince Haakon is likely to bring additional scrutiny.
Marius Borg Høiby is the son of Crown Princess Mette-Marit from a previous relationship | GETTYThis will not be the first time Hoiby’s name has generated headlines in Norway.
In his youth, he was a regular subject of tabloid interest, though the Palace has consistently maintained he should be treated as a private citizen.
The trial, beginning February 3 and running until March 14, 2026, is expected to be one of the most high-profile court cases in Norway next year.