The rape trial of Paris Saint-Germain and Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi, scheduled to begin in a French court this week, has drawn fresh scrutiny to the intersection of elite sport and criminal justice. Hakimi, 25, denies allegations brought by a 24-year-old woman who claims he assaulted her at his Paris home in February. The case proceeds amid a broader reckoning with how football institutions handle accusations against their star players.
French prosecutors charge that Hakimi, a married father of two, forced himself on the woman after she accompanied him to his apartment following a night out. The woman reported the incident to police the next day, and a medical exam documented injuries consistent with sexual assault. Hakimi’s legal team argues the encounter was consensual and points to text messages they say show no distress.
The trial, expected to last three days, will take place behind closed doors – standard practice in French sexual assault cases to protect the alleged victim’s identity. Hakimi is not subject to any travel restrictions and has continued playing for PSG and Morocco, including during the recent international break.
For the French justice system, the case tests its ability to handle high-profile defendants. Critics note that football’s power and money can influence outcomes: Hakimi’s club PSG is owned by Qatar Sports Investments, and his legal team includes prominent criminal lawyer Fanny Colin. Previous cases against footballers in France – including Benjamin Mendy and Neymar – have raised questions about preferential treatment.
Morocco’s football federation has not commented, though the case could damage Hakimi’s reputation ahead of the 2026 World Cup. He remains a national hero after Morocco’s historic semi-final run in 2022. British observers, where footballers have faced similar scrutiny, will monitor the trial’s procedural fairness.
The allegations have also reignited debate about consent and power dynamics in relationships involving athletes. Hakimi’s last salary was reported at €10m per year, and his celebrity status in Paris is significant. Legal experts say the trial will hinge on credibility and forensic evidence, as there are no independent witnesses.
A verdict is expected within weeks. If convicted, Hakimi faces up to 15 years in prison. For now, the case underscores the continuing challenge of ensuring accountability within football’s global elite.
