Achraf Hakimi to face trial in France over alleged 2023 rape case

Paris, France: A French appeals court has ruled that Moroccan football star Achraf Hakimi will stand trial over allegations of rape dating back to 2023, according to reports from French media on Friday. The 27-year-old defender, who plays for Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and captains the Moroccan national team, has consistently denied all accusations against him since the case first emerged.

The investigation began in February 2023 after a 24-year-old woman filed a complaint with police in the Val-de-Marne region near Paris. She alleged that Hakimi sexually assaulted her at his residence after the two had reportedly been in contact through social media.

French prosecutors opened a formal investigation, and after reviewing the evidence gathered over the past two years, the appeals court has now confirmed that the case will proceed to trial. The decision does not determine guilt or innocence but means judges believe there is sufficient basis for the allegations to be examined in court.

Hakimi’s legal team has repeatedly rejected the claims, describing them as unfounded and expressing confidence that the player will be cleared once the judicial process is completed.

The development comes as Hakimi remains a key figure for both PSG and Morocco. One of Africa’s most recognizable footballers, he played a crucial role in Morocco’s historic run to the semi-finals of the 2022 FIFA World Cup and continues to be an important part of the national team’s plans for the 2026 World Cup campaign.

No trial date has yet been announced. French judicial authorities are expected to release further details as the legal proceedings move forward.

The allegations remain unproven, and Achraf Hakimi is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.