Morocco and PSG star Achraf Hakimi is set to stand trial on a rape charge after a French appeals court rejected his appeal, paving the way for criminal proceedings.
Morocco international and Paris Saint-Germain defender Achraf Hakimi is set to stand trial on a rape charge after a French appeals court reportedly rejected his attempt to overturn a referral to criminal court.
The decision marks a significant development in a case that has followed the 27-year-old since 2023, when French prosecutors opened an investigation following an allegation of rape. Hakimi has consistently denied any wrongdoing throughout the process.
French media reported that the Versailles appeals court dismissed Hakimi’s appeal, meaning the case will now proceed to a criminal trial at a future date. However, authorities have not yet confirmed when the proceedings are expected to begin.
🚨BREAKING: A French court has ordered Achraf Hakimi to stand trial in a rape case.
Hakimi denies the accusation and says he is looking forward to the trial so he can publicly present his side of the story. pic.twitter.com/q2Ti8p9rRa
— Polymarket Sports (@PolymarketSport) June 19, 2026
Hakimi responded to the ruling with a statement on social media, expressing frustration over the situation while welcoming the opportunity to finally present his version of events before a court.
“Today, a story that isn’t mine is being told at the expense of my family, my life, and above all, the truth,” Hakimi wrote. “Sometimes I feel like I’ve become an easy target.”
The defender also stated that he had wanted the matter to reach trial from the beginning, adding that he was looking forward to being able to speak publicly and defend himself against the accusations.
“I’ve been waiting for this trial since day one. And now I’m looking forward to it. Finally, I’ll be able to speak out,” he added in his post on X.
The news comes while Hakimi remains on international duty with Morocco at the World Cup. The Atlas Lions defender featured in his country’s opening match against Brazil and is expected to remain part of the squad as they prepare for their upcoming fixture against Scotland.
Neither the Versailles appeals court nor Hakimi’s legal representatives immediately commented following reports of the decision. As things stand, the Moroccan star will continue his football commitments while awaiting further details on the timing and next steps of the criminal proceedings.
