Achraf Hakimi, one of Moroccan football’s most recognisable figures, could soon stand trial in a French criminal court after prosecutors in Nanterre formally requested his indictment over a rape allegation dating back to February 2023.
The 26-year-old Paris Saint-Germain defender, who is currently enjoying time off in Puerto Rico with former teammate Kylian Mbappé, is under increasing legal scrutiny. Despite public appearances of calm, a serious charge hangs over his head.
According to the final indictment, signed on August 1, the prosecution is seeking to send the case to the Hauts-de-Seine criminal court. If the investigating judge agrees, Hakimi could face up to 15 years in prison.
The alleged incident occurred on February 25, 2023. A 24-year-old woman told police she had exchanged messages with Hakimi for over a month before visiting his home in Boulogne-Billancourt. She claims she was sexually assaulted shortly after arriving.
According to her account, the player touched her without consent and continued despite her protests. She eventually escaped and texted a friend for help, who later corroborated her emotional state to authorities.
The woman did not file a formal complaint immediately, but shared messages and evidence with police that supported her claim. Hakimi was charged on March 3, 2023, after a brief police custody. He has denied all allegations.
In December 2023, the player was formally confronted with his accuser in the presence of an investigating magistrate. Both sides reiterated their positions. PSG cited “personal reasons” for his absence from training but continued to support their player publicly.
Hakimi maintains his innocence. In a January 2025 interview, he described the allegation as a blackmail attempt. “When you are successful, you become an easy target,” he said. His lawyer echoed the sentiment, calling the claim an attempted “racket.”
The woman’s lawyer, Rachel-Flore Pardo, welcomed the prosecution’s move with “immense relief.” She said the decision validates her client’s courage and claims.
Hakimi’s legal team called the indictment request “incomprehensible” and cited psychological assessments that, they claim, reveal contradictions in the woman’s story.
Fanny Colin, the defender’s lawyer, insists they remain calm. “We will pursue every legal option,” she said, should the indictment proceed.
The case now rests with the investigating judge, who will determine if it goes to trial.
