The International Handball Federation extends its deepest condolences to the Royal Family of Norway and to the people of Norway following the passing of King Harald V, who passed away peacefully on Friday, 28 August, aged 89.

King Harald's connection with sport was distinctive among modern monarchs. His interest was personal and longstanding, and handball was among the sports he followed particularly closely. He regularly attended matches involving Norway's national teams, and remained closely informed about their performances and history.

That commitment was visible at major championships hosted in Norway in recent years. King Harald attended the opening match of the Scandinavian team, at Unity Arena in Baerum, Oslo, during the 2025 IHF Men's World Championship, following the Norwegian teams with the same warmth and attention that had marked his presence at championships organised in the country during the 1980s and 1990s.

That relationship with the sport was also rooted in his own experience. King Harald played handball during his youth, giving him a personal connection to a game he continued to follow throughout his life.

His support was especially meaningful because it was consistent. He watched international matches both from the stands and from home, and he regularly sent congratulations following important victories. 

The handball community joins Norway in mourning the loss of a monarch whose affection for sport was sincere and whose support for handball remained constant throughout his reign.

Dr Hassan Moustafa, the President of the International Handball Federation, offers its heartfelt condolences to Queen Sonja, Crown Prince Haakon and the entire Royal Family, as well as to the Norwegian Handball Federation, its players, coaches and supporters at this time of national mourning.