Mention of the Moroccan international’s willingness to stand trial and defend himself in France has put the Achraf Hakimi rape case a step closer to court action.
Achraf Hakimi’s case is one of a number of investigations that have been carried out by the Nanterre prosecutor’s office in 2023 after reports of rape. The 27-year-old defender has steadfastly rejected all claims since the beginning of the inquiry.
According to French media reports, the Versailles Court of Appeal has rejected Hakimi’s appeal against being referred to a criminal court. The order paves the way for a potential trial but has not yet designated a time for it. The judge and the player’s attorney have yet to make detailed public comments about the latest ruling.
Hakimi skirted the issue by saying he would cooperate with the judicial process but also said he wanted to fight the allegations in court. He also expressed dismay at the longstanding public questioning, indicating that litigation is the best means of settlement.
Hakimi’s arrival is due as the Moroccan side is set to face Scotland later today in the FIFA World Cup. As of yet, the court ruling does not have a direct effect on his availability.
The case has garnered substantial interest since Hakimi made his debut in international football and established himself as an important figure on the pitch for both the club and the country. But court actions are still in the initial phases, and a person is presumed innocent until there is a formal verdict. Additional updates may be made when French judicial authorities establish a trial date or make other procedural rulings.
