Paris: A French court has confirmed that Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and Morocco defender Achraf Hakimi will stand trial over allegations of rape, nearly three years after the complaint was first filed.
The 27-year-old football star, who has consistently denied the accusations, responded to the court’s decision by stating that he is “eagerly awaiting” the trial. In a post on X, Hakimi said the proceedings would finally provide him with an opportunity “to speak” and present his side of the case.
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The allegations stem from an incident in February 2023, when a 24-year-old woman reported to police in the Val-de-Marne region near Paris that Hakimi had sexually assaulted her.
According to the complainant, she had first connected with the footballer on Instagram in January 2023 before visiting his residence in a taxi allegedly arranged by Hakimi. She claimed that he kissed and touched her without her consent before raping her. The woman further alleged that she managed to push him away and contacted a friend via text message, who later picked her up.
Hakimi, who plays for French champions PSG and captains the Moroccan national football team, has firmly rejected all allegations since the investigation began.
A trial date has yet to be announced by the criminal court in the Hauts-de-Seine department.
Reacting to the court’s decision, Hakimi’s lawyer, Fanny Colin, said the development was expected and stressed that it should not be interpreted as a finding of guilt.
“Nothing here says that he is guilty of anything. He remains steadfast in his defence,” Colin said.
Meanwhile, the complainant’s lawyer, Rachel-Flore Pardo, welcomed the court’s decision, stating that it brought her client “relief and hope” as the case moves toward trial.
The upcoming proceedings are expected to draw significant international attention given Hakimi’s high-profile status in world football. The footballer continues to maintain his innocence while awaiting the opportunity to contest the allegations before the court.
(This story is published from a syndicated feed)
