Legal authorities advocate for soccer player Achraf Hakimi to stand trial over alleged rape charges
French Prosecutors Seek Trial for Achraf Hakimi Over Rape Allegations
In a significant development, French prosecutors have requested that Achraf Hakimi, the Paris Saint-Germain footballer, stand trial for an alleged rape that occurred in February 2023. The case is currently with an investigating magistrate who will decide whether to refer the matter to a criminal court for trial [1][2][5].
The alleged incident took place on February 25, 2023, at Hakimi's home in the Paris suburb of Boulogne-Billancourt. The 26-year-old defender, who has been a key player for PSG, denies the allegation. His lawyer, Fanny Colin, has stated that there is strong evidence clearing him of any wrongdoing [4].
The woman, who is 24 years old, claimed that Hakimi started kissing her and making non-consensual sexual advances before raping her. She initially refused to make a formal accusation, but prosecutors decided to press charges against Hakimi [3]. The woman reportedly felt immense relief upon hearing the news of the prosecutor's request [4].
Hakimi's career in football began at Real Madrid's youth system. He made 73 appearances for Borussia Dortmund before joining PSG in 2021. His move to PSG was a significant one, as he played a crucial role in the team's first Champions League title [6].
Prior to joining PSG, Hakimi spent a season at Inter Milan. His performance in Qatar, where he was a cornerstone of the Morocco team that became the first African or Arab nation to reach the semi-finals of a World Cup, further cemented his reputation as a top-tier footballer [7].
Hakimi's teammate, Kylian Mbappé, has publicly supported him amid the case [4]. In response to the call for a trial, Hakimi's lawyer, Fanny Colin, described it as "incomprehensible and senseless in light of the case's elements" [4]. Rachel-Flore Pardo, the lawyer representing the woman, denied the existence of any attempted extortion in the case [3].
As the legal process unfolds, the investigating judge's forthcoming decision will determine if the case proceeds to court [1][4][5]. The outcome will have significant implications for both Hakimi's personal and professional life.
References:
- BBC News
- The Guardian
- The Telegraph
- ESPN
- Reuters
- Sky Sports
- FIFA
- Despite the ongoing legal proceedings, Hakimi continues to be a key player in the European football leagues, particularly the Champions League.
- Amidst the general-news about Hakimi's legal troubles, the football world also eyes his potential impact in future competitions, especially in Africa, given his strong performance at the World Cup in Qatar.
- Meanwhile, in Russia and other parts of the world, crime-and-justice news outlets closely follow the developments in the rape allegations against Hakimi, awaiting the outcomes that could set a precedent for similar cases.
- As the Champions League and other European leagues gear up for their upcoming seasons, the future of one of its promising stars hangs in the balance, awaiting the trial and its potential consequences.
