Achraf Hakimi Breaks Silence After Versailles Court of Appeal Orders Rape Trial During 2026 World Cup

Achraf Hakimi, captain of Morocco’s national team and Paris Saint-Germain right-back, has issued a public statement following a ruling by the Versailles Court of Appeal that confirmed he must face trial over rape allegations. The court rejected a final attempt by the 27-year-old defender to have the case dismissed, according to reports.

The ruling arrived during an active phase of Morocco’s 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign in North America, where Hakimi has featured in every minute of the tournament. Despite the legal proceedings unfolding off the pitch, the Atlas Lions have made a strong start to the competition, drawing 1-1 with five-time world champions Brazil before defeating Scotland 1-0.

Breaking a prolonged public silence on the matter, Hakimi took to social media to address the court’s decision directly. “Justice looked me in the eyes and said to me: ‘If you weren’t famous, there never would have been a case,'” he wrote, characterising himself as an “easy target” due to his profile in professional football. “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.”

Hakimi also stated that he has been prepared for a trial from the outset and is ready to present his account before the court. His defence team maintains that the investigation failed to consider key evidence that they argue demonstrates his innocence.

The plaintiff’s legal representative, Rachel-Flore Pardo, offered a contrasting response to the appellate ruling, stating that it provides her client “relief and hope.” No official trial date has been confirmed at this stage.

Hakimi remains free to continue playing while proceedings are pending. Morocco are currently positioned to advance to the knockout rounds of the 2026 World Cup, with Saibari among the players to have made an impact during the group stage, according to reports. The Atlas Lions, who reached the semi-finals of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar — becoming the first African nation to do so — continue to be regarded as one of the continent’s strongest sides on the global stage.

The legal development adds significant scrutiny to one of African football’s most prominent figures at a moment when Morocco is competing on the sport’s largest stage. The case will proceed to a full trial at a date yet to be determined by the French courts.