On June 20, 2026, Achraf Hakimi, the captain of the Moroccan national football team, finds himself embroiled in serious legal troubles as he faces trial on rape charges. This announcement comes despite his participation in the ongoing FIFA World Cup held in North America. Major international news outlets, including the Associated Press, have reported that the Versailles Court of Appeal in France has officially decided to indict Hakimi on these charges. The court's decision follows a thorough investigation, which led to the conclusion that prosecutors possess sufficient evidence to warrant a trial against the football star.
The allegations against Hakimi date back to March 2023, involving a 23-year-old woman. After a comprehensive investigation by French authorities, the court had decided in February to advance with a formal trial. Although Hakimi sought to appeal this decision, his appeal was denied, thereby confirming the trial will proceed. As of now, the specific date for the commencement of the trial has not been disclosed.
Despite these serious accusations, Hakimi is slated to continue his participation in the World Cup. The Moroccan team, which made headlines for reaching the semifinals in the 2022 Qatar World Cup, is competing in a challenging group alongside Brazil, Scotland, and Haiti. Additionally, Hakimi plays alongside South Korean player Lee Kang-in at Paris Saint-Germain, a prominent club in France’s Ligue 1.
In response to the allegations, Hakimi has taken to social media to assert his innocence, claiming, “If I were not famous, this incident would never have happened,” and expressing confidence in the judicial process, stating, “The judicial system will make the right decision.” He further emphasized his eagerness for the trial, saying, “I have been waiting for this trial from the beginning,” and looks forward to presenting his side of the story.
As reported by chosun.com.
