Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi to stand trial on rape charges in France
Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi lost an appeal and will stand trial on rape charges in France. An appeals court in Versailles concluded that there was sufficient evidence for Hakimi, 27, to stand trial, according to a statement provided to The Athletic on Friday. Hakimi has denied any wrongdoing since being charged in March 2023. A 24-year- old woman alleged he assaulted her in February 2023, according to previous reports. The Paris Saint-Germain fullback, who is part of Morocco’s squad at the World Cup, said he is looking forward to the opportunity to clear his name. “Justice looked me in the eyes and said to me: ‘If you weren’t famous, there never would have been a case,’” Hakimi posted Friday on X, translated from French. “I chose to remain silent for years.
