The French appeals court announced that Achraf Hakimi, a star player for Paris Saint-Germain and the Moroccan national team, will stand trial in a rape case. Hakimi is currently participating with Morocco in the World Cup. This follows winning the Champions League for a second consecutive year with PSG. He had appealed a previous decision by an investigative judge in February, which was based on public prosecutors’ recommendations for a trial.
The recent decision was publicized just before Morocco’s match against Scotland in Group C, with Morocco having previously drawn 1-1 with Brazil in their opening game. Hakimi, widely recognized as one of the top right backs globally, firmly denies any allegations. In March 2023, he faced preliminary rape charges following accusations by a 24-year-old woman who reported being raped at Hakimi’s home in a Paris suburb.
The Versailles appeals court issued a press statement indicating that Hakimi must be formally charged. It stated that investigations and the judicial inquiry provided enough evidence to proceed with a trial. Rachel-Flore Pardo, the plaintiff’s lawyer, expressed that the court’s decision brings her client relief and hope after lengthy legal proceedings.
“Relief that she has been heard by the justice system and will have her case heard at trial,” Pardo remarked to The Associated Press. “Hope that this trial will help other women and weaken the denial and impunity surrounding sexual violence, even in men’s football.”
Hakimi posted on social media expressing that if he were not famous, the case would have been dismissed, labeling himself as an easy target. He emphasized his patience and trust in the justice system, affecting not only him but his family and the truth.
The trial date is yet to be set. Hakimi’s lawyer, Fanny Colin, commented on the case, emphasizing numerous exculpatory elements that would have typically resulted in case dismissal. However, she noted regret over no repercussions arising from alleged contradictions by the complainant and claims of hindering truth-seeking efforts.