Achraf Hakimi Ordered to Stand Trial Over 2023 Rape Allegations
Paris Saint-Germain star Achraf Hakimi has been ordered to stand trial in a criminal court following a lengthy investigation into allegations of rape. The decision, which was confirmed on Tuesday morning by the Nanterre prosecutor’s office and the player’s legal representative, marks a major turning point in a case that has trailed the Moroccan international since early 2023.
The legal proceedings stem from an incident alleged to have occurred in February 2023. A 24-year-old woman reported that she was invited to Hakimi’s home in Boulogne-Billancourt, a suburb of Paris, while his family was away on vacation. According to the investigation, the two had initially connected via Instagram. The woman alleged that while at the residence, she was subjected to non-consensual sexual contact and rape. Although she did not initially file a formal complaint, the gravity of her testimony prompted French authorities to open an investigation immediately, leading to Hakimi being formally charged in March of that year.
Throughout the investigation, Hakimi has remained a cornerstone of the Paris Saint-Germain defense and the Morocco national team, maintaining a stance of absolute innocence. Following the announcement that he would be sent to trial, the 27-year-old defender took to his profile on X to express his frustration with the judicial process. He argued that current legal standards allow a trial to proceed based solely on an accusation, even when the accused denies the claims and believes the evidence points toward their innocence. He described the situation as unfair to both the truly innocent and to victims of crime, concluding that he remains calm and looks forward to the trial as an opportunity for the public truth to finally emerge.
His defense attorney, Fanny Colin, has also been vocal in her opposition to the trial order, characterizing the prosecution’s decision as “incomprehensible.” The defense maintains that the accuser’s claims lack corroboration and has pointed to the player’s cooperation with the authorities as proof of his transparency. Despite these objections, the investigating magistrate determined that there is sufficient evidence to bring the matter before a court.
As the football world watches closely, the trial is expected to be one of the most high-profile legal battles involving a professional athlete in recent French history. Paris Saint-Germain has yet to issue a new formal statement regarding the trial date, but the club has previously emphasized the importance of the presumption of innocence. While no specific date has been set for the commencement of the trial, the proceedings will likely cast a long shadow over Hakimi’s career as he prepares to defend his reputation in court.
