Moroccan international and Paris Saint-Germain footballer Achraf Hakimi will face trial for rape allegations after France's Versailles Court of Appeal rejected his appeal. The case originates from a February 2023 accusation by a 24-year-old woman in Val-De-Marne, southeast of Paris. Hakimi, who currently captains Morocco's national team, maintains his innocence and continues playing while awaiting trial. Radio France Internationale+2
The Versailles appeals court upheld a lower court's decision to proceed with trial, marking a significant development in the high-profile case. Prosecutors recommended trial after reviewing evidence from the alleged 2023 incident. Hakimi's legal team unsuccessfully challenged the referral order through multiple appeals. The Independent+1
Despite the serious allegations, Hakimi remains active for both PSG and Morocco's national team, including during the ongoing World Cup. The 27-year-old defender previously played for Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund before joining PSG. His professional status has drawn international attention to the case. Tagesschau.de+1
Hakimi publicly stated he "eagerly awaits" the trial to clear his name, while the accuser's lawyer welcomed the court's decision. The case has sparked debates about athlete accountability in France's justice system. Neither party has disclosed specific details about the alleged incident beyond the initial complaint. France 24+2