Achraf Hakimi was ordered by a French appeal court on 26 June 2020 to stand trial for an alleged rape, a decision that came just hours before he captained Morocco against Scotland at the World Cup in the United States.
What happened?
The Versailles appeal court dismissed Hakimi’s request to overturn a lower‑court order that sent him to trial for the 2023 allegation. The judges said the investigation produced enough evidence to justify a hearing before the Hauts‑de‑Seine criminal court. Hakimi posted on X that the story was “nothing to do with me” and that he felt like an “easy target”.
How the football world responded
PSG’s statement emphasized that the club stands behind the player, noting his recent accolades – best African player in 2025 and sixth in the Ballon d’Or that same year. Morocco’s national team did not suspend him; he led the side in the World Cup match, where he was booed by some fans. His lawyer, Fanny Colin, told AFP that Hakimi remains innocent until proven guilty and called the accusations a “setup”.
What’s next for Hakimi?
The criminal case will proceed in the Hauts‑de‑Seine court, with a trial date yet to be set. Hakimi said he is “looking forward to it” and will finally be able to speak. The complainant’s lawyer, Rachel‑Flore Pardo, welcomed the decision, saying six judges agreed the evidence warranted a trial. The outcome will test whether the football community continues to separate the player’s on‑field talent from his off‑field legal battles.
Impact on his career
While the legal process unfolds, Hakimi continues to feature for PSG in Ligue 1 and the Champions League. His recent performances have kept him among the top full‑backs in Europe, and his market value remains high despite the controversy. Sponsors have not publicly withdrawn support, but the lingering legal cloud could affect future transfers or endorsement deals.
Broader implications
The case raises questions about how clubs and federations handle players accused of serious crimes. It also highlights the pressure on high‑profile athletes to maintain performance levels while navigating legal battles. As the trial approaches, the football world will watch closely to see whether justice and sport can coexist without compromising either side.