Achraf Hakimi, the Morocco national team captain and Paris Saint-Germain defender, is set to stand trial over rape allegations that have drawn the attention of British football authorities. Sources close to the investigation confirm that the case, which has been simmering in the French legal system since February 2023, has now escalated to a full criminal trial. The news comes as the Football Association and Premier League officials are monitoring developments with increasing unease, given Hakimi's profile and the potential implications for the sport.
Hakimi, 25, has been accused of raping a young woman at his home in a Paris suburb. The alleged victim, whose identity is protected by law, filed a complaint with French police after the incident. Hakimi has consistently denied the allegations through his legal team, claiming that the encounter was consensual. Investigators have gathered forensic evidence, including medical reports and witness statements, which sources say paint a complex picture.
The decision to proceed with a trial was made by a panel of examining magistrates in Paris last week, after months of deliberation. The trial date is expected to be set within the next few months. Hakimi's legal team has vowed to fight the charges vigorously, arguing that the evidence does not support a conviction.
British football authorities are closely watching the case, as Hakimi is a high-profile figure in the global game. While he is not currently under investigation by UK authorities, the Premier League and FA are concerned about the reputational damage should a conviction occur. Hakimi has previously been linked with moves to several Premier League clubs, including Chelsea and Manchester City, though no formal offers have been made since the allegations surfaced.
Documents obtained by this outlet show that the FA's safeguarding unit has been in contact with French authorities to gather information. A source within the FA, speaking on condition of anonymity, said: "We are monitoring this case as part of our commitment to ensuring football is safe and inclusive. Any conviction would have serious consequences for the player's career and the sport's reputation."
The case also raises questions about how football clubs handle allegations against their players. PSG has repeatedly stated that it takes such matters seriously but has not suspended Hakimi pending the legal process. The club's statement released today read: "Paris Saint-Germain respects the presumption of innocence. We will continue to follow the legal proceedings and will act accordingly based on the outcome."
Hakimi's career has been on a meteoric rise since his breakout performances for Borussia Dortmund and Inter Milan. He moved to PSG in 2021 for a reported £60 million. His role as captain of the Moroccan national team, which reached the semifinals of the 2022 World Cup, has made him a symbol of African football excellence.
The trial is expected to be a high-profile affair, with attention from media across Europe and the Arab world. Legal experts note that sexual assault trials in France often result in acquittals due to the high burden of proof, but the accumulation of evidence here suggests a serious case.
For now, Hakimi continues to train with PSG and is expected to feature in the upcoming season. But as the trial looms, the shadow over his future grows darker. The football world watches and waits for a verdict that could reshape the narrative around one of its brightest stars.
