A French appeals court has confirmed that Paris Saint-Germain and Morocco player Achraf Hakimi will go to trial in a rape case. Hakimi, who is active in the World Cup playing for Morocco, had sought to overturn an earlier decision requiring him to stand trial. The previous ruling came after public prosecutors suggested that Hakimi should face trial.
The announcement came shortly before Morocco’s game against Scotland in Group C. Morocco previously drew 1-1 with Brazil in their opening match. Renowned as one of the top right backs, Hakimi denies all allegations. The charges stem from a March 2023 accusation by a 24-year-old woman, claiming she was raped by Hakimi at his residence in a Paris suburb.
The Versailles appeals court announced that sufficient evidence was found during the investigation to formally charge Hakimi. Rachel-Flore Pardo, representing the plaintiff, felt the decision brought her client both relief and hope after years of legal battles and accusations against her character. Pardo stated, “Relief that she has been heard by the justice system and will have her case heard at trial,” while also expressing hope that the trial could inspire and support other victims of sexual violence.
Hakimi responded via a message on X, stating he believes fame has made him an “easy target,” and that his case might have been dismissed had he not been well-known. He claimed to have maintained silence due to his faith in justice, saying, “I have been waiting for this trial since the first day. And I am now waiting for it impatiently. Finally, I will be able to speak.”
A trial date has not yet been disclosed. Hakimi’s lawyer, Fanny Colin, expressed disappointment that evidence favoring Hakimi was overlooked, noting contradictions and falsehoods in the complainant’s statements and actions, as well as psychological assessments questioning her clarity.