A French appeals court confirmed on Friday that Achraf Hakimi, the star player for Paris Saint-Germain and Morocco, will stand trial in a rape case. This decision comes as Hakimi participates in the World Cup with Morocco. The defender recently celebrated a second consecutive Champions League victory with PSG.
Hakimi had appealed a February ruling by an investigative judge. The decision followed recommendations from public prosecutors suggesting that he should face trial. The announcement of the trial was made just hours before Morocco’s Group C match against Scotland. Morocco previously drew 1-1 with Brazil in their opening game.
Hakimi, recognized as one of the best right backs globally, denies any wrongdoing. He faced preliminary charges in March 2023 following accusations by a 24-year-old woman who claimed she was raped by Hakimi at his home in a Paris suburb.
The Versailles appeals court stated in a press release that Achraf Hakimi is officially charged with rape. According to the court, investigations during the inquiry and judicial process indicated enough evidence for the player to stand trial.
Rachel-Flore Pardo, representing the plaintiff, commented on the court’s decision. She asserted that after years of legal proceedings, her client feels a sense of relief and hope. Pardo stated that the decision provides relief that her client has been heard by the justice system, and hope that this trial will challenge the denial and impunity surrounding sexual violence, even in men’s football.
In response, Hakimi claimed in a message posted on X that if he were not famous, the case would have been dismissed. He feels he has become an “easy target,” noting that the ordeal has adversely impacted him, his family, and the truth. He stated, “I have been waiting for this trial since the first day. And I am now waiting for it impatiently. Finally, I will be able to speak.” A trial date has not yet been announced.
Fanny Colin, Hakimi’s lawyer, expressed regret over the case’s continuation. She argued that any other case with similar exculpatory elements would have been dismissed. Colin criticized the complainant, citing contradictions and concealment of information, along with psychological assessments that reflected her ambivalence about the events.
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