Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi has been charged with rape by French prosecutors, just hours before his team's crucial World Cup match against Scotland. The Paris St-Germain star denies the allegations.
Details of the Case
The 27-year-old is accused of raping a woman at her home in Paris in 2023. French prosecutors have confirmed he will stand trial. Hakimi recently failed in an attempt to have the case dismissed on appeal, according to French press reports.
Hakimi's Response
Hakimi took to social media on Friday to reiterate his innocence. He wrote: "The justice system looked me in the eye and said, 'If you weren't famous, there would never have been a case.' I chose to remain silent for years. I believed that maintaining my dignity, being patient, and trusting in the justice system would allow the right decisions to be made. Today, a story that isn't mine is being told at the expense of my family, my life, and above all, the truth. I sometimes feel like I've become an easy target. I've been waiting for this trial since day one. And now I'm eagerly awaiting it. Finally, I'll be able to speak."
Plaintiff's Lawyer Welcomes Decision
Rachel-Flore Pardo, the plaintiff's lawyer, welcomed the decision to move forward with a trial. "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. Relief that she has been heard by the justice system and will have the right to a trial. Hope that this trial will help other women and further weaken the wall of denial and impunity surrounding sexual violence, including in the world of men's football."
Impact on World Cup
The bombshell news comes just hours before Morocco's crucial World Cup clash with Scotland on Friday. It remains to be seen if Hakimi will still lead the side out in Foxborough. All three of Morocco's group stage games are in the United States, where the team are currently based. However, should the team progress to the knockout stages, Hakimi could potentially face difficulties in entering either Canada or Mexico should any of their games be held there. Canada's government website states entry to the country can be denied to any person that has "committed or been convicted of a crime".
Similar Case Involving Thomas Partey
Last week, Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey missed his country's opener against Panama as he was unable to get into Canada, after being charged with seven counts of rape and one of sexual assault between 2020 and 2022. The former Arsenal star has pleaded not guilty and is due to stand trial next year.
No date has yet been set for the start of Hakimi's trial.
