Morocco Captain Achraf Hakimi to Stand Trial
French prosecutors have confirmed that Achraf Hakimi, captain of the Moroccan national football team, will face trial on rape charges. The Paris St-Germain defender was accused by a woman, then 24, of rape at his home in the French capital in 2023.
A preliminary investigation was initiated by the public prosecutor's office in Nanterre, a western suburb of Paris, in March 2023. An investigating judge subsequently ordered a trial in February 2026. Reports in French media indicate that Hakimi's recent appeal to have the trial dismissed was unsuccessful.
Hakimi Denies Allegations and Awaits Trial
Hakimi has consistently denied the accusations. In a social media post, he stated, "The justice system looked me in the eye and said, 'If you weren't famous, there would never have been a case,'" He further expressed his anticipation for the trial, adding, "I've been waiting for this trial since day one. And now I'm eagerly awaiting it. Finally, I'll be able to speak."
Rachel-Flore Pardo, the plaintiff's lawyer, issued a statement expressing her client's relief and hope following the decision. "After more than three years of legal proceedings, and after my client was, in her view, defamed and dragged through the mud by Achraf Hakimi's defence, this decision brings her relief and hope," Pardo stated. She added that her client hopes the trial will empower other women and help dismantle the culture of denial surrounding sexual violence, particularly within men's football.
Potential Travel Implications for World Cup
While a trial date has not yet been set, Hakimi is scheduled to lead Morocco in their upcoming World Cup fixture against Scotland. The team's group stage matches are all taking place in the United States. However, should Morocco advance to the knockout stages, Hakimi could encounter difficulties entering Canada or Mexico if matches are scheduled in those co-host countries. Canada's government website indicates that individuals who have "committed or been convicted of a crime" may be denied entry.
This situation mirrors that of Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey, who missed his country's World Cup opener against Panama after being denied entry to Canada. Partey faces seven charges of rape and one count of sexual assault from allegations by four different women between 2020 and 2022 and is due to stand trial next year.
Hakimi, who debuted for Morocco in 2016 at the age of 17, has earned 97 caps. He played a pivotal role in Morocco's historic run to the semi-finals of the 2022 World Cup, making them the first African nation to achieve this feat. Since joining Paris St-Germain from Inter Milan in 2021, he has secured 13 trophies, including two consecutive Champions League titles.