Morocco Captain Achraf Hakimi Set to Face Trial Over 2023 Rape Allegation

Morocco national team captain and Paris Saint-Germain defender Achraf Hakimi is set to stand trial in France after an appeals court upheld a decision related to a rape allegation made against him in 2023. The ruling clears the way for the case to proceed to a criminal court, although a date for the trial has not yet been announced.

Hakimi, one of Morocco’s most influential footballers and a key figure in the country’s 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign, has consistently denied the allegations. The defender said he has been waiting for the legal process to move forward and is prepared to present his account of the events before the court.

The case stems from an accusation made by a woman in 2023, who alleged that she was sexually assaulted at Hakimi’s residence in a suburb of Paris. Following the complaint, French prosecutors launched an investigation, and Hakimi was placed under preliminary charges as authorities examined the allegations.

Since the beginning of the investigation, the Moroccan international has maintained his innocence. Reacting to the latest court decision, Hakimi stated that the ongoing public discussion surrounding the case has had a significant impact on his personal life and family.

In a message shared on social media, the footballer expressed frustration over what he described as a narrative that does not reflect the truth. He said he had been waiting since the start of the case for the opportunity to address the accusations directly in court and welcomed the prospect of finally being heard through the judicial process.

The appeals court’s decision reportedly rejected an attempt to overturn the referral of the case to a criminal court. As a result, legal proceedings are expected to continue, with both the prosecution and defense preparing their arguments ahead of trial.

The development comes at a crucial time for Hakimi, who remains an important member of Morocco’s squad at the ongoing FIFA World Cup. The defender has continued to feature for both club and country while the legal case has progressed through the French judicial system.

Widely regarded as one of the world’s top right-backs, Hakimi has enjoyed a successful career at the highest level of football. He has represented major European clubs and played a central role in Morocco’s rise on the international stage. His performances have helped establish the North African nation as a competitive force in global football.

Despite the legal controversy, neither Paris Saint-Germain nor the Moroccan football authorities have announced any immediate changes regarding his sporting commitments. Attention now turns to the forthcoming trial, where evidence and testimony will be examined before a final judicial determination is made.

Legal experts note that the upcoming proceedings will provide both sides with an opportunity to present their arguments in full. Until a verdict is reached, Hakimi remains presumed innocent under French law.

The case has attracted significant international attention due to Hakimi’s profile as a leading football star and national team captain. As the judicial process moves forward, observers in both the sports and legal communities will be closely watching developments.

For now, Hakimi continues to focus on his football responsibilities while preparing to defend himself in court, insisting that the trial will offer him the chance to tell his side of the story and seek what he describes as the truth behind the allegations.