Achraf Hakimi, who represents FC Paris Saint-Germain and the Moroccan national team, will be tried in France on charges of rape. This decision was made by an investigating judge who agreed with the recommendation of the Nanterre prosecutor's office to refer the case to court.
The incident in question allegedly occurred in February 2023 at the footballer's home in Boulogne-Billancourt, a suburb of Paris. The woman who became the victim claims that they met through social media, after which she visited his home. Hakimi was accused in March 2023 and has since been under judicial control, including a ban on communication with the plaintiff.
The 27-year-old athlete firmly denies all allegations. According to his lawyers, only a kiss occurred between him and the woman, and the charges against him are unfounded. The defense insists on Hakimi's complete innocence and believes that an open trial will help establish the truth and restore his reputation.
Under French law, if the footballer's guilt is proven, he could face up to 15 years in prison — the maximum sentence for such a crime without aggravating circumstances. The date for the start of the trial is expected to be set soon.
