Footballer Achraf Hakimi to face trial for rape in French courts
Paris court of appeal has confirmed that the PSG defender will be tried for alleged offences dating from February 2023.
Footballer Achraf Hakimi to face trial for rape in French courts
The Paris instruction chamber has rejected an appeal by Achraf Hakimi, confirming his referral to court for rape charges. The Paris Saint-Germain left-back is the subject of a complaint filed over two years ago by a woman who claims she was assaulted by the athlete.
On social media, the 27-year-old sportsman responded by saying he was looking forward to this hearing "with impatience". According to RTBF, he declared: "I have been waiting for this trial since day one. Finally, I will be able to speak."
The player, who currently represents Morocco at the World Cup in the United States, vigorously contests the accusations. He describes them as false and believes he has become an easy target because of his fame. "Justice looked me in the eye and told me that without my celebrity, this case would never have come about", he reported.
"I chose silence for years. I was convinced that dignity, patience and trust in judicial institutions would lead me to a favourable outcome", he continued. He today laments that a version of events that is not his own is circulating, damaging his family and his reputation.
When his case was examined in May last by the examining magistrates, the footballer had requested a dismissal without further action. This request was refused. The Madrid native is currently participating in his third World Cup edition with the Moroccan national team.
Source: RTBF Info