Crown Prince Haakon has decided to return home earlier than planned after fresh concerns emerged about the health of Crown Princess Mette-Marit, according to an official statement from the Royal House of Norway.
The heir to the Norwegian throne was in the middle of an important visit to Japan but has now shortened the trip due to his wife’s worsening medical condition. While Crown Prince Haakon will continue attending scheduled engagements in Tokyo from June 1 to June 3, his planned visit to the city of Hachinohe has been cancelled.
The development comes just days after the 52-year-old royal publicly shared his concerns about Crown Princess Mette-Marit’s health, describing her condition as increasingly serious.
Speaking to Norwegian media, the Crown Prince admitted he is worried about the Princess, revealing that her health has deteriorated in recent months. Reports indicate that Mette-Marit now relies on supplemental oxygen as part of her daily routine.
Questions have also been raised about the possibility of a future lung transplant. However, Crown Prince Haakon stressed that any decision regarding advanced treatment would be left entirely to medical specialists.
Crown Princess Mette-Marit was diagnosed with chronic pulmonary fibrosis in 2018, a progressive lung disease that currently has no cure. Despite ongoing health challenges, she has continued to make occasional public appearances, including attending Norway’s Constitution Day celebrations earlier this month at the royal residence in Skaugum.
The latest update has sparked concern among royal watchers both in Norway and internationally, as the future queen’s health remains under close observation.
With the Crown Prince now heading home sooner than expected, attention is likely to remain focused on the royal family and any further updates regarding Mette-Marit’s condition.