Feb 24 • 10:52 UTC 🌍 Africa RFI Afrique (FR)

France: Moroccan footballer Achraf Hakimi sent to trial for rape

Moroccan international player Achraf Hakimi, currently with PSG, has been referred to trial for rape following an incident reported in February 2023.

Achraf Hakimi, a Moroccan footballer playing for Paris Saint-Germain, has been officially sent to trial on charges of rape stemming from an accusation made by a 24-year-old woman in February 2023. This decision was confirmed by both the player's lawyer and the Nanterre public prosecutor's office. The incident has attracted significant media attention due to Hakimi's high-profile status as a professional athlete and the serious nature of the accusations against him.

In his defense, Hakimi publicly contested the allegations via social media, emphasizing that the case is based on what he claims is the false testimony of the woman involved. He expressed his belief that the trial would ultimately clear his name and that he is prepared to face the legal proceedings with calm. His remarks highlight the complexities surrounding legal cases initiated by rape allegations, particularly in high-profile scenarios where public perception can often skew the narrative.

The trial will focus on the woman's claims and the surrounding circumstances, including her initial report to law enforcement and subsequent decisions not to file a formal complaint. These cases challenge societal perceptions of consent and the accountability of both the accused and the accuser, and the outcome may have broader implications for discussions around sexual assault laws and athlete accountability in France and beyond.

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