Achraf Hakimi sent to assizes for rape: Moroccan footballer maintains innocence
Moroccan footballer Achraf Hakimi, defender for Paris Saint-Germain, must appear before the assize court for rape. The Versailles court of appeal has confirmed his referral to trial.
Achraf Hakimi sent to assizes for rape: Moroccan footballer maintains innocence
Moroccan defender for Paris Saint-Germain Achraf Hakimi must appear before the assize court following an accusation of rape. The Versailles court of appeal has confirmed the order to refer the 27-year-old player to trial. Source: Sky Sport Austria
The captain of the Moroccan national team, currently competing in the World Cup in the United States, had previously attempted to prevent the trial from taking place, according to media reports. Hakimi formally contests the allegations made against him.
On the social media platform X, the footballer posted a message indicating that he was looking forward to the procedure unfolding: "Finally, I will be able to speak." This statement suggests that the athlete intends to present his version of events before the competent courts.
The facts date back to 2023. A 24-year-old woman reportedly declared that she had been raped during an encounter with the athlete. The two individuals reportedly came to know each other via the Instagram platform, according to available information.
The trial before the assize court represents a major judicial step in this case. In France, this court is competent to judge the most serious crimes, including qualified sexual assaults. The Versailles court of appeal's decision to maintain the referral to trial indicates that the magistrates believe there are sufficient grounds for the case to be examined at a public trial with a jury.
Hakimi, considered one of the best full-backs of his generation, has built his career at several major European clubs after passing through Real Madrid's training centre. His transfer to Paris Saint-Germain strengthened his profile on the international stage.
Source: Google News AT — Crime (de)