Norwegian footballer Andreas Schjelderup is facing legal consequences following the illegal sharing of a video. The 21-year-old winger for Benfica publicly addressed this issue on his Instagram account, labeling it as a “stupid mistake.” This incident occurred when he was 19, during his time at Nordsjaelland in the Danish Superliga.
Details Surrounding Schjelderup’s Case
In his statement, Schjelderup explained that he received and shared a video with a friend without understanding its contents. After learning about the video’s nature, he promptly deleted it. He expressed remorse, saying, “What I did in Denmark at that time was illegal and not OK. I will take full responsibility for it.”
Apology and Reflection
Schjelderup issued an apology to everyone affected, including his family, friends, employers, the country, and fans. He emphasized that he had never previously encountered legal issues and expressed shock over the situation.
“I wish I could go back in time and change my mistake,” he stated, acknowledging the gravity of his actions. He is prepared to face legal repercussions and has urged others to refrain from engaging with harmful or offensive content.
Upcoming Legal Proceedings
- Schjelderup has cooperated with Danish authorities and is expected to receive a conviction soon.
- He is undergoing charges related to the sharing of sexual material involving individuals under the age of 18.
- It has been reported that he may receive a suspended sentence.
- A court appearance is scheduled for later this month.
Impact on National Team and Club Support
Currently, Schjelderup has been selected for Norway’s 24-man squad for crucial World Cup qualifying matches against Estonia and Italy. This could mark Norway’s first World Cup appearance since 1998. The player expressed concern over the timing of the matter and its impact on the national team during significant games.
Rui Costa, the president of Benfica, has confirmed the club’s support for Schjelderup during this challenging time. Norway manager Stale Solbakken noted Schjelderup’s recognition of his “incredibly foolish” actions and expressed confidence in his ability to learn from this experience.
As the situation unfolds, Schjelderup remains focused on his responsibilities both on and off the field, committed to overcoming this personal and professional challenge.
