Paris Saint-Germain and Morocco defender Achraf Hakimi is set to face trial over an alleged rape incident that dates back to February 2023, the player confirmed in a recent statement. The 27-year-old denied the accusations, asserting his innocence and calling the upcoming legal proceedings a necessary step to reveal the truth.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Hakimi said: “Today, a rape accusation is enough to justify a trial, even though I deny it and everything proves it’s false. This is as unjust to the innocent as it is to the genuine victims. I calmly await this trial, which will allow the truth to come out publicly.”

The alleged incident involved a 24-year-old woman who accused Hakimi of assaulting her during the early months of 2023. French authorities charged the player in March 2023. Since then, the case has undergone legal review, culminating in a decision to proceed to trial. The Nanterre public prosecutor’s office has yet to release details or confirm a trial date.

Fanny Colin, Hakimi’s lawyer, issued a statement expressing readiness to defend his name: “We are determined and ready to fight as we await this trial so that justice may be served.” Colin also confirmed that an appeal was filed against the decision to move forward with the trial, though it was ultimately upheld.

Conversely, the accuser’s legal representative, Rachel-Flore Pardo, welcomed the trial's progression. Speaking to the Associated Press, she said her client responded with “relief” to the development, noting that the decision aligns with the evidence collected. Pardo added: “There are still circles where the MeToo movement has not broken the sound barrier, with the world of men’s football at the forefront.”

Hakimi remains an active player for both club and country. He featured in PSG’s most recent Ligue 1 match — a 3-0 win over Metz — and started in their UEFA Champions League round of 32 first-leg victory against AS Monaco. Ahead of the second leg, PSG manager Luis Enrique was asked about Hakimi’s legal situation and responded, “This is in the hands of the justice system,” declining to comment further.

On the international stage, Hakimi played a key role in Morocco’s run to the final of the Africa Cup of Nations, where they were narrowly defeated by Senegal. The North African nation has since secured qualification for the upcoming FIFA World Cup, and will compete in Group C alongside Brazil, Scotland, and Haiti.

The case underscores ongoing scrutiny of accountability within professional football, especially concerning allegations of sexual misconduct. As public attention grows, the trial will likely test institutional responses and spotlight broader cultural challenges in elite sports.

The Athletic has reached out to Paris Saint-Germain for official comment, but the club has not yet issued a statement. Further updates on the trial date are expected in the coming weeks.