Morocco international and Paris Saint-Germain defender Achraf Hakimi is set to stand trial in France over a rape allegation dating back to 2023, after a French appeals court rejected his challenge against being referred to a criminal court.
The 27-year-old footballer has consistently denied the accusation and says he welcomes the opportunity to present his version of events before the court. French authorities have not yet announced a date for the trial.
The case stems from allegations made by a woman who accused Hakimi of rape following an encounter at his home near Paris in February 2023. Prosecutors subsequently opened an investigation, leading to the decision to refer the case for trial.
Hakimi, one of Africa’s most recognizable football stars, has maintained his innocence throughout the legal process. His legal team has repeatedly argued that the allegations are unfounded and has sought to challenge the proceedings.
The development comes as Hakimi continues to enjoy success on the pitch with both Paris Saint-Germain and the Moroccan national team. He played a key role in Morocco’s historic run to the semi-finals of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, helping elevate the country’s profile on the global football stage.
The case has also drawn wider attention because of ongoing conversations in sport and society about violence against women, accountability, and the handling of sexual assault allegations involving high-profile public figures. Advocates for women’s rights have argued that allegations of sexual violence should be thoroughly investigated and fairly heard through the judicial process, while legal experts stress the importance of respecting the presumption of innocence until a verdict is reached.
With the appeals process exhausted on the question of whether the case should proceed, the matter will now move toward trial, where judges will examine the evidence and hear testimony from both sides before reaching a decision.
Hakimi remains available for selection and continues his professional career while awaiting the outcome of the case. A trial date has yet to be announced.
