A French appeals court has confirmed that Achraf Hakimi, a key player for Paris Saint-Germain and Morocco, will go to trial in a rape case. Hakimi, who is currently participating in the World Cup with Morocco, had previously challenged a decision made by an investigative judge in February. This decision followed the recommendation from public prosecutors indicating that Hakimi should stand trial.

The announcement came shortly before Morocco’s match against Scotland in the Group C fixture. Morocco managed a 1-1 draw against Brazil in their initial game. Despite the allegations, Hakimi maintains his innocence.

The accusations against Hakimi, considered one of the world’s top right backs, stem from a March 2023 incident. A 24-year-old woman accused him of rape at his residence in a Paris suburb. The appeals court of Versailles stated that after careful investigation, there is adequate evidence for Hakimi to be formally charged and brought to trial.

The plaintiff’s lawyer, Rachel-Flore Pardo, expressed that this decision brings some relief to her client after over three years of legal battles. She hopes the trial will set a precedent for addressing sexual violence, particularly in men’s football.

Hakimi responded on social media, stating that if not for his fame, the case would likely have been dismissed. He believes the situation has been tough on him and his family and is eager to speak out during the trial.

No trial date has been set yet. Hakimi’s lawyer, Fanny Colin, mentioned that numerous exculpatory factors were identified during the inquiry. She criticized the lack of action on alleged contradictions in the complainant’s statements.