PSG defender Achraf Hakimi could face '15 years in prison' as prosecutors 'seek trial for alleged rape after years-long investigation'

Daily Mail​

2 days ago

Achraf Hakimi could face up to 15 years in prison if convicted over an allegation of rape, after prosecutors in France formally requested that the Paris Saint-Germain and Morocco international be sent for trial before a criminal court.
The request, signed on August 1 by the Nanterre prosecutor's office, marks the latest development in a judicial investigation that has spanned more than two years. A final decision on whether the case goes to trial now rests with the investigating judge, who can either approve or dismiss the recommendation.
The case stems from an alleged incident on the night of February 25, 2023, at Hakimi's home in Boulogne-Billancourt, a suburb west of Paris. A 24-year-old woman claims she was raped after being invited to the player's residence.
She told police that the two had begun exchanging messages on Instagram in January and that Hakimi arranged for a car to bring her to his home.
Once there, she alleges he began kissing and touching her without consent and, despite her protests, forced her to engage in sexual acts. She says she eventually managed to push him away and left, later messaging a friend for help.
The woman reported the alleged rape to police the following day, although she did not initially file a formal complaint. Messages she sent to friends about the incident were later provided to investigators. On March 3, 2023, Hakimi was placed under formal investigation — the French equivalent of being charged.
The allegation against Hakimi, which he denies, was made in 2023. He has continued playing for PSG since then and was part of the team that won the UEFA Champions League in May
According to Le Parisien, the final indictment request signals that prosecutors believe there is enough evidence for the case to go to trial, though it does not constitute a finding of guilt.
Hakimi has denied any wrongdoing throughout the investigation and maintains the encounter was consensual. He has continued to play for PSG and the Moroccan national team in the meantime.
His lawyer, Fanny Colin, described the prosecution's request as 'incomprehensible and senseless in light of the evidence in the case.' She said the proceedings had already highlighted contradictions in the accuser's testimony, particularly in psychological assessments.
'Achraf Hakimi and I remain as calm as when the proceedings began,' she said. 'If these requests were to be followed, we would obviously pursue all avenues of appeal.'
The alleged victim's lawyer, Rachel-Flore Pardo, told Le Parisien her client had received this week's development with 'immense relief', viewing it as a sign the justice system is taking her claims seriously.
PSG have not commented extensively on the case but have stood by the player, citing 'personal reasons' when he missed training sessions during sensitive phases of the investigation. The club has said it continues to trust the legal process.
The investigating judge is expected to decide in the coming weeks whether Hakimi will stand trial.