Schjelderup Addresses Mistake Following Controversial Video Incident

Schjelderup has clarified that he shared a video with a friend without fully comprehending its content and deleted it promptly upon learning of its illegal nature. He also confirmed that he had been contacted earlier this year by Danish police regarding the incident and has cooperated fully with the investigation. Rui Costa, the president of Benfica, has expressed the club’s support for Schjelderup, acknowledging his feelings of remorse. This news emerged shortly after Schjelderup was named in Norway’s squad for the forthcoming World Cup qualifiers.

In an extensive statement on social media, Schjelderup stated: “Hello, everyone. I want to be transparent about a regrettable mistake I made approximately two years ago. At that time, I was 19 years old, and I now must confront the consequences of my actions. I accept full responsibility for what occurred, but it is crucial for me to convey the context behind the episode. While living in Denmark, I received a brief video and forwarded it to a friend within seconds, without giving it much thought.

“We frequently exchanged memes, as many teenagers do. When I received this video, I forwarded it without realizing it was different. I only viewed the initial moments and not the entire content. After my friend watched it, he promptly reminded me that sharing such material is, of course, illegal, prompting me to delete it immediately. In that moment, I did not consider the potential consequences or the legality of sharing it. I should have understood the gravity of my actions, but at the time, I did not.”

Schjelderup continued, “My only justification is that I was genuinely shocked by what appeared to be two young men in an old-quality video, and I sent it to a friend without careful consideration. My intention was never to disseminate harmful content or to harm anyone involved. It was a foolish, one-time mistake that I deeply regret. When the Danish authorities reached out to me this year regarding the incident, I was truthful and have cooperated throughout the entire process. I have been charged with this offense, which I likely will be convicted for in the near future, resulting in a probable suspended sentence.

“There are no excuses for my actions. What I did in Denmark at that time was illegal and unacceptable. I will take full responsibility for my actions, and I hope my experience serves as a cautionary tale to prevent others from making similar mistakes after learning about my story.”

Schjelderup added, “I would like to extend my sincerest apologies, first and foremost, to those impacted by the video. Additionally, I apologize to my friends, family, employers, country, and all fans I have disappointed. At this moment, I wish I could turn back time and rectify my mistake. I have never engaged in illegal activities before or been involved with law enforcement, so I have been in shock throughout this ordeal.

“However, here we are. I made a mistake, and I am prepared to face the consequences. The offense for which I will be convicted does not reflect my character or values. I am sincerely remorseful for my actions and embarrassed to find myself in this situation. Those who know me understand my principles, so I recognize this will come as a shock to many. I am also aware that this will be an unnecessary distraction for the Norwegian national team ahead of some of the most significant matches in our history. My intention was to share this information after the games to avoid such disruption, but regrettably, that is no longer an option.

“I urge everyone not to watch or share content that is harmful or offensive, as it is illegal. I want to apologize once more and hope for your forgiveness. I am committed to doing everything within my power to make amends.”