Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi to Challenge Ruling in Rape Case
Achraf Hakimi, the captain of the Moroccan national team and renowned player for Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), is set to escalate his legal battle by appealing to France’s highest court following a ruling that upholds the decision for him to stand trial on serious rape charges. This development comes as Hakimi finds himself participating in the ongoing 2026 World Cup.
Background of the Case
On June 19, an appeals court confirmed that Hakimi would face trial in criminal court regarding allegations that he sexually assaulted a woman in 2023. The footballer has consistently denied these allegations, stating his innocence throughout the process. The ruling came at a critical time as Hakimi was actively leading the Moroccan squad in the World Cup.
Hakimi’s Reaction and Legal Strategy
In a statement on his social media account shortly after the court’s announcement, Hakimi expressed his anticipation for the judicial proceedings, stating, “I have been waiting for this trial since day one.” His attorney has refrained from making statements about the appeal to the French Court of Cassation, which is the ultimate arbiter in civil and criminal matters in France.
Details of the Allegations
The allegations stem from a police report filed in February 2023 by a woman, aged 24 at the time, who claimed that Hakimi raped her after meeting on a social media platform. According to police sources, she alleged the player initiated contact on Instagram, subsequently inviting her to his residence via a taxi he ordered. The accuser insisted that during the encounter, Hakimi engaged in inappropriate actions without her consent, culminating in the alleged rape.
Legal Commentary and Future Steps
In light of the ongoing legal proceedings, the plaintiff’s lawyer, Rachel-Flore Pardo, stated, “Every decision handed down in this case has been in favor of the claimant. She will fight to the very end to obtain justice.” The case continues to unfold as Hakimi navigates both the pressures of the World Cup and the serious nature of the allegations against him.
