By Yomi Kuku, Toronto, Canada
Morocco captain maintains innocence as legal proceedings move forward more than three years after allegations first emerged
A French appeals court has confirmed that Morocco captain and Paris Saint-Germain defender Achraf Hakimi will stand trial over rape allegations dating back to 2023, rejecting an appeal from the player’s legal team and allowing the case to proceed to a criminal court.
The ruling by the Versailles Court of Appeal marks a significant development in one of the most closely watched legal cases involving a high-profile footballer in recent years. The court determined there was sufficient evidence for the matter to be examined at trial, upholding an earlier decision by investigating judges.
Hakimi, 27, has consistently denied the allegations since the investigation began and reiterated his innocence following the court’s decision.
In a statement posted on social media, the Morocco international said he had become an “easy target” because of his public profile and fame, adding that he welcomed the opportunity to finally present his version of events before a court.
The case stems from allegations made by a 24-year-old woman who reported that she had been sexually assaulted at Hakimi’s home in the Paris suburb of Boulogne-Billancourt in February 2023. French prosecutors opened an investigation shortly afterward, leading to the player being placed under formal investigation while maintaining his denial of any wrongdoing.
In the French judicial system, a decision to send a case to trial does not constitute a finding of guilt. Rather, it means judges believe there is sufficient evidence for the allegations to be examined in court. The ultimate determination of guilt or innocence will be made only after trial proceedings conclude.
Hakimi’s lawyer, Fanny Colin, has repeatedly challenged the allegations and previously argued that the case relied heavily on the complainant’s account. The defence has maintained that evidence gathered during the investigation supports the player’s innocence.
The plaintiff’s legal representatives welcomed the appeals court ruling, describing it as consistent with the evidence collected during the investigation and expressing hope that the judicial process would continue toward a full hearing.
No date has yet been announced for the trial.
The decision arrives while Hakimi is representing Morocco at the FIFA World Cup, where he remains one of the Atlas Lions’ most influential players and serves as team captain. Despite the ongoing legal proceedings, neither Moroccan football authorities nor Paris Saint-Germain have announced any sporting sanctions against the defender.
For now, the legal process enters its next phase, with both sides preparing for a trial that will ultimately determine the outcome of a case that has attracted significant international attention.
Until then, Hakimi continues to maintain his innocence and insists the court proceedings will provide an opportunity for the truth to emerge.