The British Embassy in Rabat has confirmed it is closely monitoring the judicial proceedings against Achraf Hakimi, the Paris Saint-Germain and Morocco national team captain, who faces rape charges in a case that has drawn international attention. The embassy’s statement, issued on Tuesday, emphasised the UK’s commitment to the rule of law and the protection of all individuals involved in the legal process.
Hakimi, 24, was arrested on Monday morning at his home in the Paris suburb of Boulogne-Billancourt and has been placed under formal investigation for rape. The alleged incident is said to have occurred on Saturday night at a property he owns in the Paris region. The plaintiff, a 24-year-old woman, filed a complaint with police on Sunday, claiming she was sexually assaulted at the residence.
The football star has denied the allegations through his lawyer, who stated that Hakimi is cooperating fully with the investigation and is confident that the truth will prevail. PSG, which acquired Hakimi from Inter Milan in 2021 for a reported €60 million, issued a brief statement expressing support for the player but refrained from further comment due to the ongoing legal proceedings.
The case has triggered a diplomatic dimension given Hakimi’s status as a Moroccan national and the prominent role he played in Morocco’s historic run to the semi-finals of the 2022 FIFA World Cup. The UK Embassy’s involvement stems from the fact that the alleged victim is a British national. A spokesperson for the embassy stated, “We are providing consular assistance to a British woman following an incident in France. We stand ready to support those affected by this case and are monitoring the judicial process closely.”
In Morocco, the news has been met with a mixture of shock and caution. The country’s football federation issued a statement urging the public to respect the legal process and refrain from premature judgment. Moroccan media outlets have reported extensively on the case, with some commentators noting the potential impact on the national team’s image ahead of upcoming international fixtures.
Legal experts in France have pointed out that being placed under formal investigation in French law does not imply guilt but indicates that there is sufficient evidence to warrant further inquiry. Under the French system, an investigation can last for months or even years before a decision is made to bring the case to trial or drop the charges.
Hakimi has been released from custody under judicial supervision, with conditions including a ban on contacting the plaintiff and an order to reside at an address specified by the authorities. He must also report to the police station regularly and surrender his passport.
The case has reignited debates about the treatment of sexual assault allegations in the world of professional sport. Campaign groups have called for transparency and accountability, while also expressing concern for the wellbeing of both the accuser and the accused.
As the investigation proceeds, the international community remains alert to developments that could have broader implications for Franco-British-Moroccan relations and the reputation of one of football’s most promising talents.
