Achraf Hakimi will captain Morocco against Canada on 4 July 2026, even as a French court has ordered him to stand trial for rape. The right‑back’s legal battle now sits alongside his World Cup duties, raising fresh questions about eligibility and public perception.
What triggered the trial?
In February 2023, a 24‑year‑old woman reported to French police that she had been raped at Hakimi’s Paris residence. Investigators opened a formal probe days later. After three years of hearings, the Versailles Court of Appeal ruled on 19 June 2026 that sufficient evidence existed to send the case to the Hauts‑de‑Seine criminal court, where a trial is expected this autumn.
How does the case affect his World Cup role?
Despite the indictment, FIFA has not suspended Hakimi, allowing him to line up for Morocco’s group‑stage match against Canada at 10 a.m. PT. Morocco’s manager Mohamed Ouahbi praised the defender, calling him “extraordinary” and “the best right‑back in the world,” while the Canadian side prepares for what could be a historic win in their tournament debut.
What has Hakimi said?
Following the appeal decision, Hakimi posted on X, stating, “Justice looked me in the eyes and said, ‘If you weren’t famous, there never would have been a case.’ I chose to remain silent for years… I’m looking forward to the trial and finally being able to speak.” The accuser, speaking to Mediapart, said she feels “alone, unsupported and not understood,” and wants a trial to be heard.
Why does this matter for fans and sponsors?
Hakimi’s $97 million salary and trophy cabinet have grown while the legal cloud loomed. Sponsors watch closely; any conviction could trigger contract clauses. Meanwhile, fans in Boston heard boos each time he touched the ball during Morocco’s win over Scotland, reflecting a split public reaction that extends beyond the pitch.
What’s next for the Atlas Lions?
Morocco’s next fixture against Canada will determine whether they stay alive in the 2026 World Cup. A win could boost morale ahead of a potential trial‑related fallout. The French court has not set a trial date, but sources expect a hearing in the fall. Until then, Hakimi remains on the roster, his performance on the field the only immediate variable.
How will the legal process unfold?
French investigating judges, unlike the UK’s Crown Prosecution Service, review evidence before deciding on indictment. Six judges agreed the case met the threshold, meaning the criminal court will hear both sides later this year. No verdict is expected before the tournament concludes.
What does this mean for the broader sport?
Hakimi’s situation highlights the tension between legal accountability and sporting governance. As the Atlas Lions prepare for a crucial match, the football world watches how governing bodies balance due process with the integrity of competition.