Paris Saint-Germain defender Achraf Hakimi will stand trial on rape allegations dating back to February 2023, lawyers confirmed Tuesday, . The case centers around accusations made by a then 24-year-old woman who alleged she was assaulted at Hakimi’s home in the southeast of Paris.
Hakimi, a key player for both PSG and the Moroccan national team, vehemently denies the charges. In a post on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, he stated, “Today, a rape accusation is enough to justify a trial. This represents as unjust to the innocent as it is to the genuine victims. I calmly await this trial, which will allow the truth to come out publicly.”
The decision to proceed to trial was confirmed by both Hakimi’s lawyer, Fanny Colin and the prosecutor in Nanterre, a suburb of Paris. Rachel-Flore Pardo, representing the plaintiff, expressed her client’s relief at the development, stating it “is fully consistent with the evidence in the file.”
Hakimi was initially given preliminary charges of rape in March 2023. Under the French legal system, these preliminary charges indicate a strong suspicion of a crime but allow for further investigation before a final decision on whether to proceed to trial is made.
Colin, Hakimi’s lawyer, has argued that the case rests solely on the testimony of a woman she claims obstructed the investigation. Colin detailed that the plaintiff “refused all medical examinations and DNA testing, refused access to her mobile phone, and refused to provide the name of a key witness.” She further asserted that two psychological assessments of the plaintiff revealed “a lack of clarity regarding the facts she claims to denounce, as well as the absence of any post-traumatic symptoms.”
The case has drawn attention beyond the sporting world, with Rachel-Flore Pardo highlighting the broader implications. She stated that the handling of the affair serves as a reminder that “there remain environments where the Me Too movement has yet to break the sound barrier, chief among them the world of men’s professional football.”
The timing of this development comes on the eve of a crucial Champions League playoff match for PSG against Monaco. Despite the gravity of the allegations, PSG coach Luis Enrique offered a brief response when questioned about the case during a press conference. He stated simply, “This is in the hands of the justice system,” and declined to comment on whether Hakimi’s role as vice-captain would be affected.
The preliminary charges stem from an accusation made in February 2023. The woman alleged that Hakimi assaulted her at his home. The French legal process allows for these initial charges when judges believe there is sufficient reason to suspect a crime has been committed, while still allowing time for a more thorough investigation.
The Nanterre public prosecutor’s office recommended the case proceed to trial last August, a recommendation that has now been upheld by a judge. While a trial date has not yet been set, the decision marks a significant step forward in the legal proceedings.
Hakimi, widely regarded as one of the world’s top defenders, has maintained his innocence throughout the investigation. His statement on X underscores his determination to clear his name and allow the facts to be presented in court. The outcome of the trial will undoubtedly have significant repercussions for both Hakimi’s career and the broader conversation surrounding allegations of sexual assault within professional sports.
The case is being closely watched by legal observers and sports fans alike, as it navigates the complexities of the French legal system and the high-profile world of professional football. The focus now shifts to the upcoming trial, where the evidence will be presented and a final determination will be made.
