PSG’s Achraf Hakimi Ordered to Stand Trial Over Rape Allegation

Paris Saint-Germain defender Achraf Hakimi has been ordered to stand trial in France over an alleged rape dating back to February 2023, following a decision by an investigating judge this week.

Hakimi, 27, who plays for Paris Saint-Germain and represents Morocco national football team, was placed under formal investigation in March 2023 after a 24-year-old woman accused him of raping her at his home in Boulogne-Billancourt, a suburb west of Paris.

On 24 February 2026, French judicial authorities confirmed that the case will proceed to trial, following a recommendation from prosecutors.

Under French law, being sent for trial does not constitute a finding of guilt, but indicates that magistrates believe there is sufficient evidence for the matter to be examined in open court.

Hakimi has consistently denied the allegation. Through his legal representatives, he has maintained his innocence and previously described the accusation as false.

His lawyer has argued that the case rests solely on the complainant’s account and has questioned elements of the investigative process.

Representatives for the plaintiff have welcomed the decision to move forward, stating that the evidence justifies a criminal hearing.

The alleged incident was first reported in February 2023. According to French media reports at the time, the woman went to a police station shortly after the alleged assault but did not initially file a formal complaint.

An investigation was nonetheless opened by the Nanterre prosecutor’s office. Hakimi was later indicted, a formal legal step in France that places a suspect under judicial investigation.

Throughout the process, Hakimi has remained available for selection by PSG and Morocco.

The Ligue 1 club did not suspend him at the time of his indictment and reiterated its support for the player while the legal proceedings continued.

He has featured prominently in PSG’s domestic and European campaigns since the investigation began.

From a footballing perspective, the development brings renewed scrutiny to one of the club’s most high-profile defenders.

Hakimi has been a key figure for PSG since joining from Inter in 2021, winning multiple domestic honours and playing a central role in Morocco’s historic run to the 2022 World Cup semi-finals.

However, the legal process now enters a more definitive phase. A trial date has not yet been publicly announced. In France, such cases are heard before a criminal court, and proceedings can take months to schedule depending on court availability and pre-trial motions.

It is important to stress that the presumption of innocence applies. Hakimi has not been convicted of any offence. The forthcoming trial will determine whether the allegation meets the threshold for criminal responsibility under French law.

For PSG, the situation poses both sporting and reputational considerations. The club is competing on multiple fronts this season, and Hakimi remains an integral part of their tactical setup.

Any future legal developments could influence availability, squad planning, or public positioning, although no disciplinary action has been announced to date.

For Morocco, too, the case carries weight. Hakimi is one of the national side’s most recognisable figures and a senior presence within the squad.

As of now, there has been no indication from the Moroccan federation of any change to his international status.

The case will move to trial in the French criminal courts, where evidence and testimony from both sides will be examined. Until a verdict is delivered, Hakimi remains legally presumed innocent. Further details, including scheduling, are expected in due course.