Crown Princess Mette-Marit of Norway will not attend the state visit to Belgium next week, as her health has taken a turn for the worse. Reports from various media outlets, including Expressen and VG, reveal that the Crown Princess’s condition has deteriorated, prompting her press secretary Guri Varpe to confirm her absence from the official trip. Additionally, Princess Astrid will also not be present due to needing rest after a brief illness.

Mette-Marit has been managing pulmonary fibrosis, a severe chronic respiratory condition that has affected her public engagements. Her last appearance was in late January at a library in Fredrikstad with Crown Prince Haakon. Royal officials have commented that the Princess has been leading a quieter life recently to focus on her health, indicating negative developments in her condition over recent months. Preparations are reportedly underway to assess her eligibility for a lung transplant, highlighting the seriousness of her situation.

The news of her cancelled state visit and ongoing health issues raises significant concerns not only for her royal duties but also for the Norwegian monarchy, which may need to adjust its public representation in light of the Crown Princess's health struggles. At this point, Norway is awaiting further updates on Mette-Marit’s condition as her resilience and ability to fulfill her roles remain uncertain, making the monarchy's future leadership structure a topic of interest among observers and royal watchers alike.