In brief
Morocco's captain Achraf Hakimi—now 27—has been ordered to stand trial on rape charges in France, allegations surfaced in 2023 when the victim was 24. The French prosecutor confirmed the case after a March 2023 investigation, and an appellate court denied Hakimi’s bid to drop the proceedings. Despite his denial, the story threatens to shake his 2026 World Cup appearances in the US and could affect travel to Canada or Mexico. The case highlights broader discussions on sexual violence in men's football and the legal scrutiny on high‑profile athletes. Fans and legal analysts alike watch closely as the trial’s date remains undecided.
Morocco captain Hakimi to stand trial for rape
The 27‑year‑old PSG defender who led Morocco’s historic 2022 World Cup run will soon face a French court over a rape claim that emerged last year. A woman, aged 24 at the time, says Hakimi assaulted her at his Paris apartment in 2023 – a case that started with a preliminary probe in March 2023 and moved to a full trial announced in February 2026. Hakimi, who has earned 97 caps since his 2016 debut, has consistently denied the allegations and warned that unless the justice system sets a trial, he will never have the chance to defend himself.
In a social‑media post, the star said the system “looked me in the eye” – hinting the case is not just about football fame but about accountability. Fan reactions are already split, with some calling for stricter vetting of players, while others urge focusing on the legal merits.
The trial will also have practical ramifications for the World Cup: if Morocco’s 2026 matches shift out of the US, Hakimi could be barred from Canada or Mexico, echoing the recent exclusion of Ghana’s Thomas Partéy from the Canadian start‑lineup for immigration‑related reasons. The rule applies to anyone convicted or charged with a serious crime, and sports bodies are wary of how legal battles may limit player availability.
While the court date is yet unknown, the publicity surrounding the case underscores a larger push to curb sexual violence in the sport—speak‑for‑women figures, along with a plaintiff lawyer, publicly hope the proceedings will empower other victims and erode the culture of impunity in football. The outcome may affect not only Hakimi’s future but also how teams navigate player conduct in the sport’s global spotlight.
Source: BBC Sport, 19 June 2026
