Achraf Hakimi welcomes rape trial, confident truth will clear his name

Paris Saint‑Germain and Morocco defender Achraf Hakimi has welcomed the decision by French authorities to refer him to trial on a charge of rape, insisting that the judicial process will demonstrate his innocence.

In a statement posted on his verified Twitter (X) account, Hakimi acknowledged that “today, a rape accusation is enough to justify a trial, even though I contest it and everything proves that it is false.”

He emphasised that the procedure is “as unfair to the innocent as it is to sincere victims” but underlined his confidence in the French judicial system, stating: “I await this trial calmly, which will allow the truth to come out publicly.”

Aujourd’hui une accusation de viol suffit à justifier un procès alors même que je la conteste et que tout démontre qu’elle est fausse. C’est aussi injuste pour les innocents que pour les victimes sincères. J’attends avec calme ce procès qui permettra que la vérité éclate…

— Achraf Hakimi (@AchrafHakimi) February 24, 2026

The announcement by the Nanterre prosecutor’s office on Tuesday marked the culmination of a nearly three‑year investigation into allegations dating back to an incident at the defender’s home in Boulogne‑Billancourt in February 2023.

The case has been formally referred to the Hauts‑de‑Seine criminal court, representing a significant escalation in the legal saga that has shadowed Hakimi’s career. Under French law, a conviction on the charge of rape carries a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison.

The investigation began in early 2023, when a then‑24‑year‑old woman reported to police that she had been invited to Hakimi’s residence while his wife and children were on vacation and subsequently assaulted.

Although the complainant did not initially lodge a formal complaint, the seriousness of the allegations prompted prosecutors to open an inquiry on their own motion.

Hakimi has consistently denied the accusations since they first emerged. His legal team has described the allegations as part of what they consider an attempt at “racketeering” and financial extortion.

In his social media message following the referral to trial, Hakimi reiterated his denial and framed the forthcoming proceedings as an opportunity for transparency and vindication.

Despite the gravity of the charges, Paris Saint‑Germain has continued to support the right‑back, and he remains a central figure in the club’s plans.

The Moroccan national team has also continued to select him, including during their run to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final. While no date has yet been set for the trial, the court is expected to establish a schedule in the coming months.

Hakimi remains under judicial supervision but is permitted to travel internationally for his professional commitments.