Paris Saint-Germain defender Achraf Hakimi has been ordered to stand trial for rape allegations following an investigation initiated by the Nanterre prosecutor’s office in 2023. The Morocco international was given preliminary charges in March 2023 after a 24-year-old woman accused him of sexual assault at his home in the Paris suburb of Boulogne-Billancourt on February 25, 2023.
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Trial Details and Legal Timeline
Hakimi has consistently and vehemently denied all allegations, stating on social media that he “calmly awaits” the trial, believing it will allow “the truth to emerge publicly.” His lawyer, Fanny Colin, announced plans to appeal the trial order while emphasizing that the case relies solely on the plaintiff’s testimony without corroborating evidence.
| Aspect | Information |
|---|---|
| Player Name | Achraf Hakimi (age 27) |
| Club | Paris Saint-Germain (vice-captain) |
| National Team | Morocco (captain) |
| Allegation Date | February 25, 2023 |
| Accuser Age | 24 years old (at time of incident) |
| Incident Location | Boulogne-Billancourt, Paris suburb |
| Investigation Opening | March 2023 (Nanterre prosecutor) |
| Preliminary Charges | March 2023 |
| Trial Order Date | February 25, 2026 |
| Trial Date | Not yet set |
| Lawyer Name | Fanny Colin |
| Appeal Status | Lawyer plans appeal |
Allegations and Plaintiff’s Account
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| How They Met | Instagram (January 2023) |
| Method of Travel | Taxi ordered by Hakimi |
| Alleged Actions | Kissing without consent, touching without consent, rape |
| Plaintiff’s Response | Managed to push him away, texted friend for pickup |
| Key Witness | Friend who picked her up |
| Medical Examination | Refused by plaintiff |
| DNA Testing | Refused by plaintiff |
| Mobile Phone Access | Refused by plaintiff |
| Witness Name | Refused to disclose by plaintiff |
Hakimi’s Defense and Lawyer’s Arguments
Fanny Colin, Hakimi’s legal representative, presented a comprehensive defense strategy emphasizing investigation obstruction. She stated: “A trial has been ordered based on an accusation that rests solely on the word of a woman who obstructed all investigations, refused all medical examinations and DNA testing, refused access to her mobile phone, and refused to provide the name of a key witness.“
Colin further emphasized that two successive psychological assessments of the plaintiff “revealed a lack of clarity regarding the facts she claims to denounce, as well as the absence of any post-traumatic symptoms.” This argument forms a cornerstone of Hakimi’s defense strategy, suggesting inconsistencies in the plaintiff’s account.
Hakimi himself posted on social media: “Today, an accusation of rape is enough to justify a trial even though I contest it and everything demonstrates that it is false. This is as unjust to the innocent as it is to the genuine victims.”
Career Impact and Current Status
Hakimi has been a pivotal figure for PSG with 194 appearances and serves as vice-captain. The Spanish-born Moroccan international continues playing for the club while the legal proceedings advance. He is also captain of Morocco’s national squad.
PSG coach Luis Enrique addressed the situation, stating: “This matter is in the hands of the authorities,” indicating the club’s approach of separating sporting performance from legal proceedings. Hakimi remained in the squad for PSG’s Champions League playoff second-leg match against Monaco on February 26, 2026.
Plaintiff’s Perspective and MeToo Context
Rachel-Flore Pardo, representing the plaintiff, told the Associated Press that her client welcomed the trial order “with relief,” adding it “is fully consistent with the evidence in the file.” She criticized broader football industry practices, stating: “There are still environments where the Me Too movement has yet to break the sound barrier, chiefly in men’s professional football.”
Pardo’s statement emphasizes systemic issues within professional football regarding sexual misconduct allegations and institutional responses, positioning the case within broader conversations about athlete accountability.
Previous Statements from Hakimi
In a September 2025 interview with Canal+, Hakimi described the accusation as “the hardest thing that’s ever happened to me” and “the hardest blow I’ve ever suffered.”
He emphasized cooperating fully with authorities: “I asked to speak to the police, to explain my version. Always when they’ve needed me for anything… What’s more, they have my DNA. Whatever they needed, I was available, unlike the person accusing me, who didn’t make things easy.”
Read More: Morocco Coach Walid Regragui Nears Exit Ahead of 2026 World Cup
FAQs
When was the trial ordered for Achraf Hakimi?
The trial was ordered on February 25, 2026, following recommendations from the Nanterre prosecutor’s office last August. However, a specific trial date has not yet been set.
What are the charges against Achraf Hakimi?
Hakimi faces rape charges stemming from allegations that he assaulted a woman at his home in a Paris suburb. He has denied all allegations.
Why did the plaintiff refuse medical examination and DNA testing?
The plaintiff’s reasons for refusing medical examinations, DNA testing, and mobile phone access have not been publicly disclosed. Hakimi’s lawyer argues these refusals obstruct investigation.
Can Hakimi play while facing trial?
Yes, Hakimi continues playing for PSG as a defender and vice-captain. The French legal system allows him to continue professional activities pending trial resolution.
What is the appeal status of the trial order?
Hakimi’s lawyer Fanny Colin announced plans to appeal the judge’s decision ordering the trial, though the appeal process may not prevent the trial from proceeding.
