Achraf hakimi faces 15-year sentence for rape

On Friday, August 1st, French prosecutors called for Paris Saint-Germain star Achraf hakimi to stand trial for allegedly assaulting a female in 2023. He denies all accusations. If found guilty, Hakimi could be sentenced to up to 15-years in prison.

The prosecutor’s office has requested in writing that the Paris Saint-Germain international and Moroccan be brought before a court of law. The Nanterre Prosecutor’s Office signed the petition on August 1, marking the most recent step in a two-year judicial investigation. 

The investigating judge is the one who will make the final decision about whether or not the case proceeds to trial. He can approve or deny the request. The case stems from an alleged incident on the night of February 25th, 2023, at Hakimi’s home in Boulogne-Billancourt, a suburb west of Paris. Hakimi is accused of raping a 24-year-old woman after she was invited to Hakimi’s home. He denies these allegations.

‘Now, up to the investigating magistrate’

In a press release, the prosecutor’s office said that it was up to “the investigating magistrate” to make a decision within the limits of his orders.

Hakimi is 26 and played a vital role in PSG achieving their first Champions League title. He scored the opener during the 5-0 demolition of Inter Milan, in the final, in May. Hakimi also played a key role in Morocco’s historic run to the World Cup semifinals 2022.

Hakimi’s lawyer Fanny Colin told AFP that the prosecutors’ demand for a trial was “incomprehensible” and “senseless”, given the elements of the case.

“We and Achraf hakimi remain as calm now as we were when the proceedings began. We would appeal to all levels of court if these requests were followed.”

Rachel-Flore Pardo told AFP that her client was “extremely relieved” by the news.

Hakimi is a Madrid native. Real Madrid was the start of his career. He joined Borussia Dortmund of the Bundesliga in 2018. He played 73 matches for the Germans before moving to Inter Milan and PSG in 2020.