Full Breakdown
Achraf Hakimi to Stand Trial for Rape Allegations
2/24/2026, 7:54:44 PM
Overview of the Case
Achraf Hakimi, a defender for Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and captain of the Moroccan national football team, is set to stand trial on charges of rape stemming from an incident in February 2023. A 24-year-old woman accused Hakimi of assaulting her at his home in Boulogne-Billancourt, a suburb of Paris. The Nanterre prosecutor's office confirmed that the case has been sent to trial, although a date has yet to be established.
Allegations and Legal Proceedings
The allegations against Hakimi arose after the woman reported to police that she had been raped following a meeting arranged via Instagram. She claimed that Hakimi had kissed her, touched her without consent, and then raped her. The woman managed to escape and text a friend for help. Following the accusation, the prosecutor's office opened an investigation in March 2023, leading to preliminary charges against Hakimi.
Hakimi has consistently denied the allegations, asserting that they are false. In a post on X, he stated, "Today, a rape accusation is enough to justify a trial, even though I contest it and everything proves that it is false. This is 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."
Defense and Criticism
Hakimi's lawyer, Fanny Colin, criticized the basis of the trial, claiming it rests solely on the woman's testimony, which she argues has been obstructive to the investigation. Colin noted that the plaintiff refused medical examinations, DNA tests, and did not provide the name of a key witness. She expressed her intention to appeal the decision to proceed with the trial.
Conversely, the plaintiff's lawyer, Rachel-Flore Pardo, expressed relief that the case is moving forward, stating that the judiciary has handled the matter well. Pardo highlighted that the treatment of such cases in men's football still reflects areas where the #MeToo movement has not fully penetrated.
Impact on Hakimi's Career
Despite the ongoing legal proceedings, Hakimi remains a key player for PSG and was included in the squad for their upcoming Champions League match against Monaco. PSG's head coach, Luis Enrique, commented on the situation, stating, "This matter is in the hands of the authorities," and refrained from further discussion.
If found guilty, Hakimi could face a prison sentence of up to 15 years. The case has garnered significant media attention, particularly given Hakimi's status as a prominent athlete and his recent accolades, including being named in the Fifpro men's world team of the year.
Conclusion
The trial of Achraf Hakimi represents a significant moment in the intersection of sports and legal accountability, particularly regarding allegations of sexual misconduct. As the case progresses, it will be closely monitored by both the public and the media, reflecting broader societal issues surrounding the treatment of such allegations in professional sports.
