Paris Saint-Germain defender Achraf Hakimi will stand trial following a rape allegation made against him, the player confirmed Tuesday. The case centers around an incident alleged to have occurred at his home in Paris in 2023, involving a 24-year-old woman.
Hakimi, a key figure for both PSG and the Moroccan national team, vehemently denies the accusations. He addressed the situation publicly on his X account, stating, “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 Nanterre prosecutor’s office initiated a preliminary investigation in March 2023, and has now progressed the case to trial. While the prosecutor’s office has yet to release a detailed statement, they confirmed the decision to proceed. Hakimi’s lawyer, Fanny Colin, stated that the trial order was received with “determination and resolve,” expressing confidence that justice will be served.
The allegations surfaced last year, prompting an immediate investigation by authorities. Despite the serious nature of the accusations, PSG included Hakimi in their squad for Wednesday’s Champions League knockout round play-off match against Monaco, signaling the club’s decision to allow the legal process to unfold before taking further action. He was named in the initial squad list published last Tuesday.
The 27-year-old Hakimi, born in Spain, represents Morocco internationally and has made 194 appearances for Paris Saint-Germain. He was recently recognized for his performances, being named to the FIFA FIFPro Men’s World 11 at the Best FIFA Football Awards ceremony held in Paris on Monday. This honor underscores his continued importance to both club and country despite the ongoing legal proceedings.
The timing of this development also carries implications for the Moroccan national team, as they prepare for the World Cup this summer in the USA, Mexico, and Canada. Morocco is scheduled to face Scotland, Haiti, and Brazil in group play. Hakimi’s availability for the tournament remains uncertain pending the outcome of the trial.
Rachel-Flore Pardo, the plaintiff’s lawyer, expressed relief that the case is moving forward, stating that the judiciary has handled the matter with exemplary care. Colin, Hakimi’s lawyer, countered that the accusation is based solely on the testimony of a woman who, she alleges, obstructed the investigation by refusing medical examinations, DNA tests, and access to her mobile phone, as well as declining to name a key witness.
No court date has been set at this time. The case is expected to draw significant attention, given Hakimi’s high profile as a professional footballer and the gravity of the allegations. The outcome of the trial will undoubtedly have far-reaching consequences for all parties involved, impacting not only Hakimi’s career but also the broader conversation surrounding accusations of this nature within the world of professional sports.
The decision by PSG to include Hakimi in the Champions League squad highlights the complex considerations facing clubs when dealing with players facing serious legal challenges. Balancing the presumption of innocence with the need to uphold the club’s values and protect its reputation is a delicate act. The club’s approach suggests a commitment to allowing the legal process to run its course before making any definitive decisions regarding Hakimi’s future.
As the case progresses, it will be closely watched by legal experts, sports fans, and advocates for both victims and the accused. The trial promises to be a high-profile event, with the potential to set precedents for how similar cases are handled in the future. The focus will remain on ensuring a fair and just outcome for all involved, while upholding the principles of due process and the rule of law.
