Morocco captain and Achraf Hakimi has been ordered to stand trial on rape charges by a French court after an appeal challenging the case was unsuccessful.
According to reports, the Versailles Appeal Court ruled that there is sufficient evidence for the matter to proceed to trial. The court’s investigating chamber concluded that the case should be heard before a criminal court, paving the way for formal proceedings against the Paris Saint-Germain defender.
Hakimi was initially charged in March 2023 following allegations made by a woman in France. The 2022 FIFA World Cup star has consistently denied all accusations against him throughout the investigation.
Earlier this year, Hakimi confirmed that he was expected to face trial and maintained his innocence. In a statement shared on social media, the Moroccan international said he was “looking forward” to the proceedings, adding: “Finally, I will be able to speak.”
The trial date has not yet been publicly announced. Until a verdict is reached, Hakimi remains presumed innocent under French law.
The 27-year-old has established himself as one of the world’s leading right-backs, playing a key role for Paris Saint-Germain and the Morocco national football team. He was instrumental in Morocco’s historic run to the semi-finals of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, the furthest any African nation has progressed in the tournament’s history.