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Morocco Captain Achraf Hakimi to Stand Trial on Rape Charge. Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi will stand trial in France on a rape charge after an appeals court rejected his attempt to have the case dismissed. The case stems from allegations made by a woman who accused the defender of raping her at his home in 2023. French judges ruled that there is sufficient evidence to proceed to a criminal trial. The Paris Saint-Germain player has denied the accusation. He argued that his status as a high-profile footballer made him an easy target and has welcomed the opportunity to defend himself. His lawyers have challenged the allegations throughout the investigation and argued that the evidence does not support the charge. French authorities have not announced a trial date. The case now moves to a criminal court after more than three years of investigations, appeals and legal challenges. If convicted, the Morocco captain could face a prison sentence of up to 15 years, making the case one of the most high-profile criminal proceedings involving a major international footballer. The decision comes as Hakimi is leading Morocco at the 2026 World Cup in North America. The ruling places one of African football's biggest stars under renewed scrutiny during the sport's most visible tournament.
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