Achraf Hakimi to Stand Trial in Rape Case

A 27-year-old footballer, Achraf Hakimi, has announced that he will face trial for rape allegations made against him in 2023. In a social media post on Tuesday, Hakimi stated that he denies the accusations and believes the trial will allow the truth to be revealed.

The Nanterre prosecutor’s office had initiated an investigation into the allegations after a woman claimed Hakimi raped her. The prosecutor has since confirmed that the case has been sent to trial. Hakimi’s lawyer, Fanny Colin, stated that the trial is based on the testimony of one woman who refused to cooperate with investigations and did not undergo medical examinations or DNA tests.

Hakimi’s lawyer also mentioned that the plaintiff’s lawyer, Rachel-Flore Pardo, expressed relief at the prospect of a trial. However, Pardo noted that the judiciary’s handling of the case has raised concerns about the progress made by the #MeToo movement in men’s football.

The player is scheduled to face PSG in a Champions League match on Wednesday. Hakimi was initially included in the team’s squad list published earlier this week.

Source: Al Jazeera