Moroccan international footballer Achraf Hakimi will stand trial following a judicial order related to rape allegations dating back to February 2023. The Parisian court’s decision comes after a prolonged investigation into accusations made by a woman who reported being assaulted at the athlete’s residence.
According to initial reports from AFP, the complainant approached authorities in Val-de-Marne, east of Paris, alleging non-consensual sexual contact after meeting the PSG defender through Instagram. The woman detailed how Hakimi had arranged chauffeur transportation to bring her to his home, where she claims he initiated unwanted physical contact that escalated to sexual assault. She reported managing to escape the situation with assistance from a friend who came to retrieve her.
Hakimi, who maintains his innocence, responded to the development via social media platform X, stating: “Today, a rape accusation is enough to justify a trial, even though I contest it and everything proves that it is false.” The athlete added that he awaits the judicial process calmly, believing it will reveal the truth while acknowledging the complexity such cases present for both accused individuals and genuine victims.
The defense team, led by attorney Fanny Colin, has announced plans to appeal the committal order, characterizing the case as relying solely on the accuser’s testimony without supporting forensic evidence. Colin emphasized that the complainant allegedly obstructed investigations by refusing medical examinations, DNA testing, and analysis of her mobile device.
Conversely, Rachel-Flore Pardo, representing the civil party, expressed relief at the indictment decision after three years of legal proceedings. Pardo noted the alignment of the court’s decision with prosecution requests and highlighted persistent challenges in addressing sexual violence allegations within certain social circles, specifically mentioning men’s professional football.
The 25-year-old athlete, captain of Morocco’s national team and key contributor to their historic 2022 World Cup semi-final appearance, continues his professional duties with Paris Saint-Germain. The club has declined commentary, with coach Luis Enrique stating the matter remains “in the hands of the justice system” as Hakimi prepares for upcoming Champions League fixtures.