Former Real Madrid defender Achraf Hakimi to stand trial over rape allegations | OneFootball

Achraf Hakimi, who spent 12 years at Real Madrid prior to emerging as one of the world’s best right-backs, has been informed that he will stand trial in the coming months, as he prepares to defence himself against rape allegations.

The Paris Saint-Germain player, who is currently at the 2026 World Cup with Morocco, was initially reported to the French authorities in 2023 over an incident that took place at his home. He has denied any wrongdoing throughout the ongoing case, but he will now have to answer the prosecution in open court.

On Friday, Hakimi’s appeal to the French justice department was rejected (via Diario AS), meaning that he will be required to stand trial. He was informed of the decision in the lead-up to Morocco’s match against Scotland, scheduled for the early hours of Saturday morning (12am CEST).

Hakimi reacts to news – “Finally I will be able to speak”

Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images

Within hours of the news breaking that Hakimi will have to stand trial, he took to X to address the matter. He admitted that he is looking forward to having the chance to clear his name, three years after the incident was first reported.

“Justice looked me in the eyes and said to me: ‘If you weren’t famous, there never would have been a case’. I chose to remain silent for years. I thought that staying dignified, being patient, and trusting the justice system would allow the right decisions to be made. Today, a story that is not mine is being told at the expense of my family, my life, and above all, the truth. Sometimes I feel like I’ve become an easy target. I’ve been waiting for this trial since day one. And now I’m looking forward to it. Finally, I will be able to speak.“

For now, Hakimi will seek to return his full attention to Morocco’s exploits at the World Cup, although this matter has the potential to be a distraction for him.