Achraf Hakimi is set to face trial in France over a rape allegation linked to an incident in February 2023.
French prosecutors confirmed on Tuesday that the case will go to court; however, Hakimi, 27, has denied the allegation and maintains his innocence.
The accusation was made by 24-year-old Hiba Abouk, who alleges the footballer assaulted her at his home outside Paris after the two connected on Instagram. 
A preliminary investigation was opened in March 2023 by prosecutors in Nanterre. After reviewing the case, authorities decided it should proceed to trial.
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Hakimi’s Reaction
Reacting to the development, Hakimi wrote on X that an accusation alone should not be enough to justify a trial. He said the situation is unfair to innocent people and insisted that he is calmly waiting for the trial.
“Today, being accused of rape is enough to be sent to trial, even if I dispute the claim; all current evidence shows it is unfounded. This is unjust for the innocent and equally for the true victims. I await this trial calmly, confident that it will reveal the truth publicly.”
His lawyer, Fanny Colin, said the case is based only on the woman’s testimony. She also claimed that the complainant refused medical examinations, DNA testing and access to her mobile phone, which she said limited the investigation.
However, the woman’s lawyer, Rachel-Flore Pardo, said her client welcomed the decision to go to court. She added that while the justice system handled the matter seriously, men’s football still struggles to fully address issues raised by the #MeToo movement.
Despite the case, Hakimi continues to play for Paris Saint-Germain. He has made 194 appearances for the French club and serves as one of the team’s vice-captains.
He remains part of the squad for their Champions League playoff match against AS Monaco. Coach Luis Enrique said the matter is in the hands of the authorities.
Hakimi was born in Spain to Moroccan parents and started his career at Real Madrid’s academy. He played for his home country, Morocco, in the 2022 World Cup, where he helped them get to the semi-finals.
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