The Public Prosecutor’s Office in Nanterre, France, has formally charged Achraf Hakimi, the right-back for Paris Saint-Germain, for an alleged rape that occurred in February 2023, requesting his trial. The accusation, revealed by the newspaper Le Parisien on August 1, 2025, claims that the 26-year-old Moroccan player forced a 24-year-old woman into non-consensual sexual relations at his home in Boulogne-Billancourt, Paris. If convicted, Hakimi could face up to 15 years in prison. The player’s defense denies the accusations, alleging attempted extortion, while PSG continues to support him. The decision on the trial now rests with an investigating judge.
The victim reported to the police that she met Hakimi via Instagram in January 2023 and was invited to his residence. According to her statement, he kissed her and touched her breasts without permission, forcing her into a sexual act despite her refusal. The young woman managed to escape after kicking the player and sought help from a friend, who picked her up.
The accusation sparked immediate reactions. In Morocco, social media is divided between support for the player, with claims of a “conspiracy,” and calls for respect for the judicial process. The case, ongoing since March 2023, now awaits judicial analysis to determine the next steps.
- Key points of the accusation:
- The incident occurred in February 2023 in Boulogne-Billancourt.
- The victim claims she was forced into a non-consensual sexual act.
- Hakimi’s defense points to attempted extortion.
- PSG has supported the player since the investigation began.
Reactions and stances
The formalization of the accusation has intensified public debate. Hakimi’s lawyer, Fanny Colin, called the charge “incomprehensible” and vowed to appeal if the trial is authorized. The player, who continues to play for PSG, remains calm, according to his defense, trusting in the French judicial system. The Parisian club reiterated its support for the player, emphasizing his importance to the team.
In Morocco, where Hakimi is a national hero for leading the team to the 2022 World Cup semifinals, the news has caused polarization. Some fans compare the case to the conviction of Moroccan singer Saad Lamjarrad, jailed for rape in 2023, suggesting external motives against prominent figures from the country. Others advocate for the impartiality of the process.
The victim, whose identity remains undisclosed, has chosen to avoid public exposure. Her lawyer, Rachel-Flore Pardo, stated that she stands by her claims and seeks to preserve her safety, limiting herself to cooperating with the authorities.
Case timeline
The case began in February 2023 but gained prominence with the formal accusation in 2025. Below are the key moments:
- January 2023: Hakimi and the victim begin contact via Instagram.
- February 25, 2023: The alleged rape occurs at the player’s home.
- February 26, 2023: The victim reports the case to the police without filing a formal complaint.
- March 2023: Hakimi is indicted and placed under judicial supervision.
- August 2025: The Public Prosecutor’s Office requests the player’s trial.
The preliminary investigation, opened on February 27, 2023, was conducted by the Nanterre Public Prosecutor’s Office. The initial indictment barred Hakimi from contacting the victim but allowed him to leave France. Now, the trial decision depends on an investigating judge.
Impact on PSG and Hakimi’s career
Hakimi, signed by PSG in 2021 from Inter Milan, is a key player for the team. A close friend of Kylian Mbappé, he was selected for the FIFA World XI in 2022 and finished eighth in the Best FIFA Football Awards. Despite the seriousness of the accusations, the player has continued to play, participating in major matches, such as the 2023 Champions League round of 16.
PSG, which avoided commenting directly on the investigation in 2023, maintains its supportive stance toward the athlete. The coach at the time, Christophe Galtier, refused to address the case in press conferences, focusing on Hakimi’s recovery for matches. Currently, the club monitors the situation, but there are no indications of the player’s suspension.
However, the accusation could impact Hakimi’s image, particularly in advertising campaigns and the transfer market. His popularity in Morocco and Europe, built on standout performances, now faces a test in public opinion.
Judicial context in France
France has intensified its fight against sexual crimes, with high-profile cases in recent years. The conviction of Dominique Pelicot in 2024 for drugging and raping his wife and Joel Le Scouarnec in 2025 for abusing 299 victims reflect the judicial system’s rigor. In Hakimi’s case, the maximum penalty of 15 years is stipulated for qualified rape, depending on the evidence presented.
The French judiciary considers factors such as testimonies, physical evidence, and the crime’s context. The victim’s initial lack of a formal complaint does not prevent the case from proceeding, as the Public Prosecutor’s Office has taken charge. The investigating judge’s analysis will be crucial in determining whether there is enough evidence for a trial.
- Aspects of the judicial process:
- The victim’s and her friend’s testimonies are central.
- Hakimi’s defense questions the lack of physical evidence.
- The maximum penalty is 15 years in prison.
- The trial decision depends on the investigating judge.
Public debate and social media
The news reignited discussions about sexual violence and the responsibility of public figures. On social media, hashtags related to Hakimi reached thousands of mentions on August 1, 2025. While some fans defend his innocence, others demand stricter investigations.
In Morocco, the case is sensitive due to Hakimi’s status as a national hero. Comparisons to Saad Lamjarrad, convicted in similar circumstances, fuel theories of discrimination against Moroccans in France. Meanwhile, feminist movements emphasize the importance of giving the victim a voice, reinforcing the need for an impartial investigation.
The polarization reflects the challenge of handling serious accusations against celebrities. French media, such as Le Parisien and AFP, maintain factual coverage, but the case already inspires analyses about the impact of allegations in sports.
Next steps in the case
Hakimi’s future depends on the judicial decision. If the investigating judge accepts the Public Prosecutor’s request, the player will face a trial, with no set date yet. Otherwise, the case could be dismissed, depending on the evidence.
The defense is preparing appeals to contest the accusation, while the victim continues to cooperate with the authorities. PSG, for now, keeps Hakimi in the squad, but the judicial outcome could alter his trajectory with the club and the Moroccan national team.
- Possible developments:
- The trial could take place in 2026 if approved.
- Acquittal depends on the lack of concrete evidence.
- The impact on Hakimi’s career will be inevitable.
