A French appeals court confirmed on Friday that Paris Saint-Germain and Morocco star Achraf Hakimi will stand trial in a rape case.
The Moroccan defender—who is currently representing his country at the 2026 World Cup—had appealed a February decision by an investigative judge. That previous ruling followed explicit recommendations from public prosecutors stating that Hakimi must face trial.
The Versailles appeals court’s decision was released just hours before Morocco takes on Scotland in their second Group C match, following the Atlas Lions’ 1-1 opening draw against Brazil.
The Background of the Allegations
Hakimi, widely regarded as one of the best right-backs in the world, firmly denies any wrongdoing. He initially faced preliminary charges of rape in March 2023 after a 24-year-old woman stated she was assaulted by the player at his home in a Paris suburb.
Hakimi Breaks His Silence
In a statement posted on his X (formerly Twitter) account on Friday, Hakimi claimed that his case would have been dismissed if he were not a high-profile athlete, adding that he often feels like an “easy target.”
Achraf Hakimi on X: “Justice looked me in the eye and told me: ‘If you were not famous, there would never have been a case.’ I chose to remain silent for years. I believed that staying dignified, being patient, and trusting the justice system would allow the right decisions to be made.”
“I have been waiting for this trial since the first day,” Hakimi added. “And I am now waiting for it impatiently. Finally, I will be able to speak.”
An official date for the trial has yet to be announced.
