Morocco captain Hakimi to stand trial over rape allegations

Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi is set to stand trial in France after prosecutors confirmed that a case involving a rape allegation against the Paris Saint-Germain defender will proceed to court.

The case stems from an accusation made by a 24-year-old woman who alleged that Hakimi raped her at his home in Paris in 2023.

French authorities opened a preliminary investigation in March of that year, before an investigating judge ordered a trial in February 2026.

French media reports indicate that Hakimi’s appeal to have the case dismissed was unsuccessful, clearing the way for the trial to move forward.

The 27-year-old has strongly denied all allegations and has repeatedly maintained his innocence.

In a statement shared on social media, Hakimi expressed frustration over the proceedings, claiming he had remained silent for years out of respect for the legal process.

“The justice system looked me in the eye and said, ‘If you weren’t famous, there would never have been a case,’” Hakimi wrote.

“I chose to remain silent for years. I believed that maintaining my dignity, being patient, and trusting in the justice system would allow the right decisions to be made.

“Today, a story that isn’t mine is being told at the expense of my family, my life, and above all, the truth. I sometimes feel like I’ve become an easy target.

“I’ve been waiting for this trial since day one. And now I’m eagerly awaiting it. Finally, I’ll be able to speak.”

The woman’s lawyer, Rachel-Flore Pardo, welcomed the decision, saying her client felt relieved that the case would be heard in court.

After more than three years of legal proceedings, and after my client was, in her view, defamed and dragged through the mud by Achraf Hakimi’s defence, this decision brings her relief and hope,” Pardo stated.

She added that the trial could contribute to breaking what she described as a culture of denial and impunity surrounding sexual violence, including in men’s football.

A date for the trial has not yet been announced.

Hakimi is currently with Morocco at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States and is expected to captain the Atlas Lions in their second Group C match against Scotland.

However, should Morocco advance to knockout matches scheduled in Canada or Mexico, the ongoing legal proceedings could potentially create travel complications for the defender depending on immigration and legal considerations.

Source: citinewsroom.com