Paris Saint-Germain defender Achraf Hakimi has spoken publicly about the rape allegation he is facing, saying he remains calm and confident that he will be cleared. The 26-year-old Moroccan international is under investigation in France, with prosecutors recently calling for him to stand trial.
“I know that what I am accused of is a lie,” Hakimi told journalist Mouloud Achour in an interview for Canal+ show Clique. A short clip aired on Wednesday night showed Hakimi insisting on his innocence. “I know that I have not done anything and that I would never do that,” he said in Spanish. “Today, I have peace of mind… hoping that the truth will soon be revealed.”
Hakimi, who rose to global fame after helping Morocco reach the semi-finals of the 2022 World Cup, was charged in March 2023. French prosecutors allege that he raped a 24-year-old woman he met through social media. Reports say Hakimi paid for the woman to visit his home in Boulogne-Billancourt, a Paris suburb, on February 25, 2023, while his then-wife and children were away.
The woman later went to the police alleging rape, but did not file a formal complaint. Despite this, prosecutors pressed charges, arguing the case should proceed. On August 1, the Nanterre prosecutor’s office confirmed they had asked for the charge to be referred to a criminal court.
Hakimi has maintained his innocence throughout, claiming the situation is an extortion attempt. His legal team argues the allegations are unfounded. The accuser’s lawyer, Rachel-Flore Pardo, has strongly rejected that defense. “Nothing in the case lends in any way to a characterising of extortion,” she told AFP. “Mr Hakimi is trying to create a counter-fire that we are used to in cases of sexual violence.”
Despite the ongoing legal battle, Hakimi has continued to play for PSG and for Morocco. His career achievements have not slowed down, highlighted by winning the Champions League with the French club earlier this year.
The case remains ongoing, with both sides standing firm. Hakimi’s statements mark one of the few times he has publicly addressed the matter, underscoring his belief that the truth will absolve him.
By Yockshard Enyendi
