PSG’s Achraf Hakimi Facing Trial for 2023 Rape Allegations

Well, talk about drama both on and off the field. Just when Moroccan international and PSG superstar Achraf Hakimi seemed to be at the top of his game, his name is making headlines again, and not for his football skills. French prosecutors have officially called for charges of rape against the 26-year-old athlete, stemming from allegations made in February 2023. If convicted, the man who’s been a powerhouse on the pitch could face a maximum of 15 years behind bars.

The Allegations That Sparked a Storm

Here’s the sordid backstory no one asked for but can’t stop reading about. According to reports, Hakimi met the alleged 24-year-old victim on Instagram (because where else would this start in 2023?). After what appears to have been a month of virtual exchanges, Hakimi allegedly arranged for an Uber to bring the woman to his home in Boulogne-Billancourt near Paris. Talk about rolling out the red carpet.

It was here that things allegedly took a dark turn. The woman claims Hakimi kissed her and touched her inappropriately through her clothes, despite her protests. She alleges that he escalated the situation to full-on assault before she managed to push him away and leave the scene. Shaken, she reportedly texted a friend to pick her up and later went to the police to report the incident. Initially hesitant to file a formal complaint, she later provided additional evidence, including text messages, that supported her claims.

Hakimi’s Take on the Situation

Of course, Hakimi and his legal team have denied all wrongdoing faster than a well-executed counterattack. The football star has publicly claimed that the allegations are a “plot against him,” suggesting this is an elaborate attempt at blackmail. Honestly, not the most original defense, but it never fails to grab attention. His lawyer, Fanny Colin, has backed this narrative, calling the allegations “attempted racketeering.” They’ve even filed a countersuit, aiming to discredit the plaintiff.

Cue the back-and-forth drama. On December 8, 2023, Hakimi faced his accuser in court during a hearing with the investigating judge. While she reiterated her accusations, Hakimi, backed by his high-profile legal team, stayed firm in his defense, denying all charges.

The Prosecution’s Verdict

Last Friday, prosecutors in Nanterre dropped the bombshell by officially calling for Hakimi to face trial. They’ve dismissed his claims of a setup, saying there’s enough evidence for the 26-year-old to be referred to criminal court. You can practically hear the collective gasps.

The alleged victim’s lawyer, Rachel-Flore Pardo, was quick to applaud the decision, calling it a relief for her client. “We won’t tolerate any smear campaigns or attempts to destabilize the case,” she said in a statement, taking a dig at Hakimi’s countersuit shenanigans. She’s clearly playing no games here.

What’s Next for Hakimi?

Well, Hakimi may still be free on bail for now, but this trial is looming large over his glittering football career. PSG management, of course, has had to awkwardly toe the line, stating they trust the justice system. Meanwhile, Hakimi has shown no signs of slowing down on the pitch, even bagging trophies with PSG last season, because why wouldn’t you keep playing at your peak during a scandal?

The accused football star is currently vacationing with teammate Kylian Mbappé (because obviously, when life gives you lemons, you head for Puerto Rico), appearing unfazed by the storm brewing around him.

Truth be told, regardless of what happens next, this is going to leave a lasting mark in his career. For fans of PSG or followers of current legal dramas, all eyes remain on whether Hakimi’s defense will hold as steadfastly as he does in front of a goal.