Achraf Hakimi: What you need to know about his alleged sexual assault case

Achraf Hakimi. Picture: ESPN
Achraf Hakimi, the Moroccan international and PSG right-back, is facing renewed legal scrutiny over a 2023 rape allegation. A 24-year-old woman accused Hakimi of raping her at his home in Boulogne-Billancourt while his wife and children were away. According to her version, the two had been chatting on Instagram for several weeks before she visited his residence, where she claims the assault occurred despite her refusal of his advances.
Hakimi has denied all allegations, asserting through his lawyer that the encounter was consensual and part of a pre-arranged visit. He maintains his innocence and insists the accusation is an attempt at extortion. Although initially placed under judicial supervision, he was not formally charged. Now, French prosecutors are urging that the case proceed to trial, putting Hakimi’s career and reputation at risk as the legal process unfolds.
French Prosecutors Call for Trial Amid Lingering Controversy
French authorities are pressing for a criminal trial following a 16-month-long investigation. The magistrates overseeing the case had earlier stopped short of filing formal charges, instead placing Achraf Hakimi under judicial supervision. However, new developments have prompted prosecutors to request a full rape trial in the Nanterre court.
The request was made after further examination of evidence, including forensic and testimony-based findings. It remains unclear if the judge will proceed with a formal indictment or dismiss the case altogether. The final decision on whether Hakimi stands trial lies with the investigating judge, who has yet to announce a timeline.
This judicial back-and-forth has drawn global attention due to Hakimi’s high-profile status in European football. A trial could mean not only reputational damage but potential consequences for his career with PSG and the Moroccan national team.
Public Reaction and Career Impact for the Achraf Hakimi
The rape accusation has sparked a wave of mixed reactions from fans and analysts. Supporters of Achraf Hakimi have pointed to the absence of formal charges in 2023 as a sign of his innocence, while critics argue that the case deserves to be heard in court to ensure justice for the alleged victim.
If the case goes to trial, Hakimi could be forced to step back from professional duties, especially with international fixtures approaching. Sponsors and commercial partners are reportedly monitoring developments closely. PSG has not yet issued a new statement regarding the prosecutor’s request, though the club previously expressed confidence in allowing legal proceedings to run their course.
For now, Hakimi remains free and active in football, but a trial would place him under far greater public and legal scrutiny, potentially reshaping the future of one of Africa’s most prominent athletes.
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Legal Timeline and What Comes Next
The original complaint was filed in February 2023. Since then, authorities have carried out preliminary investigations, leading to Hakimi’s placement under judicial supervision but not full indictment. Now, with prosecutors recommending a trial, a magistrate will decide whether the case proceeds formally to court.
If indicted, Hakimi could face significant jail time if convicted. However, it’s also possible the judge may choose not to send the case to trial. Until that decision is made, Hakimi remains under legal constraints but is not barred from international travel or club duties.
This case is being closely followed across Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, regions where Hakimi commands massive influence. The trial’s outcome, should it proceed, will likely shape public discourse around athlete behavior, justice, and institutional responses to sexual assault claims.