Hakimi sent to trial for rape: PSG faces unprecedented situation

France’s Court of Cassation definitively confirmed on Wednesday that Achraf Hakimi will stand trial before the criminal court of Hauts-de-Seine for rape. The Paris Saint-Germain right-back, who remains presumed innocent, cannot avoid a trial.

The alleged incident dates back to 26 February 2023, when a 24-year-old woman filed a complaint at the Nogent-sur-Marne police station against the Moroccan international. She claimed to have been a victim of digital penetration by him.

Statistically, Hakimi’s legal situation is concerning. In France, between 70 and 80 % of rape cases tried on the merits before criminal courts result in conviction, with the remainder ending in acquittal.

In a statement, PSG stressed that Achraf Hakimi “remains presumed innocent to this day”. But the Court of Cassation’s decision places the capital club in a delicate position: should it keep the player in its squad and continue to field him? The question will inevitably be raised to Luis Enrique at his next press conferences.

This case comes at a time when the handling of legal proceedings involving public figures is being closely scrutinized. Singer Patrick Bruel, who is under investigation for rape, attempted rape, sexual assault and sexual harassment, recently cancelled his tour due to public pressure — a precedent that illustrates growing public expectations on the matter.